Giving, Loving and Caring ARE the Meaning of Life and OH

Today finds my elderly mother-in-law lying nearly incoherent in a hospital bed, the victim of a stroke yesterday afternoon.  What remains of the time and quality of her life is utterly uncertain at this point.  Her wishes are to be comfortable and be allowed to die in peace when her time comes, without implementation of live-saving measures.  I took a long walk at lunch time today to try to gain some perspective on why a woman who was happily married for more than 50 years, has raised 10 children, happily cooked numerous family and holiday meals, and made literally hundreds of quilts for family members would be willing to let go so easily.  It dawned on me that she has given, loved and cared for so many people that perhaps she is satisfied with the substance and meaning those actions gave to her life. 

Since that thought occurred to me well before the end of my walk, I also thought about those people I have come across in my own life who give, love, and care much more than any ordinary person.  So many people like that are here on OH.  Yes, we sometimes bicker,  gossip and conduct ourselves in negative ways.  Yet, by and large (or by and smaller), there is an abundance of giving, loving and caring here.  No wonder I spend too much time on OH......it is helping me see the meaning of life!

Anyhow, as I returned from my walk I saw both wildlife and moon-eyed couples engaged in the mating rites of spring with so much warmth and sunshine in the air that I couldn't stop smiling.  Somehow over the course of 4 miles I went from sadness to understanding to acceptance and joy.  So, my OH friends, let us continue to give, love, and care for one another on this wild journey we share. 

RP

I'm so sorry for what's happening to your mother-in-law (and her family).  It's so hard to deal with things like this.  It sounds like you had a wonderful walk and came away with some very beautiful sentiments.  How great it is to be able to appreciate the good people and good things in your life!  You're an amazing person!

Your words are not only eloquent, the say what so often we forget to tell each other on a regular basis!  I love you ALL!!! You are some of my bestest friends in all the world and I am so happy that my decision to have WLS came with such fantastic bonuses!  None of us are guaranteed tomorrow, or the next day, or the next hour for that matter. And I hope I never regret a word spoken to anyone the day I die.

Rick, I hope when my time comes that I can feel satisfied that I lived my life to the fullest and by God's wishes, not my own. Good for you for realizing that your MIL is probably satisfied with her life and for respecting her wishes. We could all hope for such loving and respectful family around us when that time comes!  My prayers are with you and your family as this recent incident works itself out according to each of your wishes and God's plan!

Take care & Hugs!

Sometimes life is so UNFAIR..... God decides when he needs us and he comes to get us.  Just like my dad who was only 63  when he passed away he went peacefully and I am so THANKFUL for that.  Although God took him way to early he needed to go be with my uncle, he new we would be okay.  My thoughts and prayers are with you all in this time of need.  Hold on to what you have because you never know when it will be gone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hugs to you........

Marsha

My dear friend, you really did miss your calling in life.  The kind of contemplation you give to your cir****tances is really humbling.  God has blessed you in many ways - and me with the opportunity to know you!

RP,

Your words bring tears to my eyes.....You have a wonderful way of expressing your feelings and figuring them out......

Your MIL sounds like a wonderful lady.......Sounds like she's lived a good life.......

Your right this OH family is the BEST.......We may all squabble, gossip, etc. once in awhile, But were all here for one another, and our OH family is the most caring and supportive people I've ever met....

Thanks RP for reminding me what's really important in life.....We end to take things for granted.....

Me

Your words are so true.  Each hour and day is a blessing.  I must have needed to hear that message this week, its really sinking in!  May your mother in law be blessed.

Jess

Well said my friend well said!   I will continue to keep your family in my prayers.

Rick
May God comfort you and your family. I had the great pleasure of meeting you only one time, what a blessing you are to your family and all of us.
                                            Take Care
                                                         Jan 

RP,

Sending you warm kindling to keep your hearth fire burning. Keeping you safe. Hoping your MIL will have peace and comfort as the days progress.

Karen