This is a grim, but honest, post. With the pandemic raging and other factors at play, I am more aware of the fragility of life than every before. I know that when I spend time with loved ones, it could be the last time I see them. I'm sure that, in part, this is due to my age--I've lived for six decades, and hope to live another 4, but at this age, people you know do pass more often.
An older friend of mine shared this outlook with me as she spoke of her relative. She said, "I knew when I saw him at a recent event, it might be the last time I would see him." It seems like her prediction was correct. Another relative experienced this situation not too long ago when he saw a family member who passed away not to long ago for the last time.
With this in mind, I realize that this won't be the focus of last visits, but instead with each time I get together with family members, I want to make sure it is a good time--a time when we enjoy the positive aspects of life we share, a time of joy and care.
While looking through countless photos yesterday, I was reminded of so many good times in life and grateful to the many family members who created those memorable events. In the years ahead, there will be lots of opportunity to create similar events--events that give life meaning, joy, and camaraderie.
It's true, that whenever we are with those we love, it could be the last time we see them. For some people and occassions, this is more true than others, but with that perspective in mind, we can put a bit more effort into the quality of our time together, making those times loving and memorable.