Two important women passed away recently. These women I didn’t know well; I’d only met each once or twice. Through others who are dear to me, I was, however, connected to them. And, through those others I have felt expressions of great love – thus, I have loved – or perhaps been loved – by proxy.
The wonderful women who passed away lived in the same town and even shared friends. Their deaths were unrelated, but their life philosophies are indeed connected: love and serve others endlessly. At both services, family members described repeatedly and consistently the remarkable, yet humble impact each woman had upon others. Over and over, tears poured across the pulpits or into crumpled Kleenexes. Family, friends, and mere guests, like me, felt the waves of sorrow as we learned more – and felt more deeply – who we had lost. Poignantly, I understood that love was both the origin of and the hopeful resolution to the sorrow felt through this loss.
Thinking about those who are suffering right now, I cannot help but acknowledge the consistencies between those who passed on and those who were left behind. Unconditional love as parents, forgiving and dedicated companions, and community servants, my loved ones also have intertwined philosophies with those who they mourn. Additionally, I consider the attribute of strength measurably apparent in my loved ones through their hard work, selflessness, and faith (even when that faith may feel blind).
This experience reminded me how I’ve been blessed by the love, service, and strength of others; and, it, too, inspired the consideration that I’ve also been blessed by proxy through the dear women by whom my loved ones have been blessed and served. Love and service are indeed the keys to a meaningful, memorable life. Today, I have four exceptional women to thank for that reminder.
Recent Comments