Six Words

How nice to have this blog to return to each week, especially during a time when things seem a bit uncertain, and the unknown creeps into my organized and routine life more than I am comfortable with. I just read an article in a magazine, describing a project that asks individuals to tell their life's story in only six words. Six words! For someone like me, who derives great pleasure in eloquent speech and detailed explanations, it presented quite a challenge. Here are a few examples from others who have confronted this task:
"I dance daily, watched or not."
"Sorry I'm not married yet, Mom."
"Car totaled. Lives spared. Forever grateful."
So, after much thinking and jotting down a few ideas, I have decided that for at least the remainder of my 26th year of life, my six word life story will be: "Never alone, seeking love, still smiling." Anyone else want to give it a shot?

I finally finished reading The Help, one of the best reads I can truly say I've had in years. I am now reading Gabby, a moving and encouraging story written by Mark Giffords, husband of congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords. I was flipping through the photo section of the book and was struck by a photo that was taken mere seconds before the gunman opened fire in the crowd. How unique to have the details of that moment frozen in time. In my line of work, I am often present with patients and families immediately prior to a life-changing event. I wonder what details of that day, that hour, that minute will remain in their minds? I hope that if I happen to be a part of that picture, even fuzzy in the background, that my presence was supportive, non-judgemental, and maybe a tiny bit of light in a very dark moment. On my worst days, I pray no patient or family remembers the over-tired, hungry, and cranky Child Life Specialist who had to rush to see four different patients and didn't take the time to sit to answer their question. Can you remember vivid details of moments before you had a life-altering event?

Have you ever had something or someone very close to you attacked or questioned in a way that made you feel as if your own character and value was being threatened? How interesting when our own individual identities and feelings are so closely connected to something or someone else that we immediately feel as if we need to rise to the defense. I experienced something similar this week. While the specific details can't be shared, I was quite surprised at my own reaction, how quickly I became offended. It also became a reminder of how quickly differences in perspectives and opinion can morph into anger.

In other news, since being at home, I have enjoyed getting the opportunity to reconnect with friends I haven't spoken to in a while. It's funny how true and lasting friendships are such that one brief phone conversation can feel as if you've spoken every day for months. There are no terms, conditions, or limitations, you are accepted with all of your flaws and imperfections, and likewise accept that person for whatever they bring to the table. Now, more than ever, I value a friend that will disagree with me, call me out when I'm having an extended pity party for myself, and tell me that I should have never worn that color sweater. That same friend will remind you that you are special and worthwhile, that you have much to offer the world and that you are destined for great things. To my dear friends, thank you. You lift me up and keep me there!

To my blog followers, I wish you the reconnection with an old friend or the making of a new one, time at the end of a stressful day to get lost in a great book, and moments that would make it simply impossible for you to tell about your life to date in only six words. Speak kindly and remember the mark your words will inevitably leave on someone, even those who are strangers. Thank you for reading and "blessings to all you love in this world."