“True love is made of four elements: loving kindness, compassion, joy, and equanimity.” –Thich Nant Hanh
When I married my husband Laurence, I knew he was living with polycythemia vera, a rare type of blood cancer. He was managing his symptoms with meds and regular doctor visits. We were convinced that love was more powerful than the disease and that we would not let his diagnosis interfere with our lives. Until it did…
We knew whatever time we had was precious. We never discussed it, but there was a sense of living in the present moment and not taking anything for granted. We had our share of quarrels and arguments but we resolved them quickly and made a pact to never go to bed angry. We appreciated every day and activity. I am so grateful for every moment we shared together. He may not be here physically, but I am so aware of his loving energy.
Lately I’ve been thinking about how precious life is. Everyday for everyone. Our time here on earth is so brief. What if we truly lived knowing our time is limited? What would life be like if we lived with an intention to love and treated each other with respect and appreciation? What if we let disagreements and differences fall away and found a sense of peace—for ourselves and others?
I lost several beloveds this year: my spiritual teacher and friend, Rev. Dr. Marcia Sutton; my beautiful friend, Georgena Grace: my wonderful Aunt Dorothy who took an interest in everything I did; my lovely friend Charlotte, and several other friends and family members. They left before I could tell them what an impact they had on my life and how much I appreciate them.
I live in an awareness of deep gratitude every day. My intention is to live as love to the best of my ability, and to forgive myself when I mess up. I intend to let others know they make a difference in my life. I choose to see love in everyone I meet.
When I need help remembering, I use this prayer from Paul Selig: “On this day I choose to know my worth in love. On this day I decide to know the worth of all in love, regardless of my previous perceptions of them. On this day I know that all are worthy of love, and my sight, my expression affirms this every moment of my waking day. I know that this is so.”
I am grateful for you! Know that you are loved.
Blessings for a joy-filled, love-filled New Year.
Beautifully said, dear friend. I love you! Lynn
Thank you Lynn.Love you too!
Hearts back to you!
Thank you Sandy! Hugs.
Happy New Year and thank you for your beautiful words and sentiments. I’m grateful to call you my friend and to have you in my life. Much love always!!
Thanks so much Gloria. I am grateful for you as well. Knowing a healthy and joyful New Year.
I am filled with appreciation for you Rev. Christine! Thank you for the beautiful reminder. This will be my intention to take forward into the new year.
Thanks for your kind words Maureen. Hugs!
I am joining you on this love journey. So perfect for me in this time of life!! Blessings to you dear One!!
Thanks so much Judith. Hugs!
Thank you, Christine. A beautiful reminder to love out loud and telling our friends and loved ones how much they mean to us. My husband Peter has been living with polycythemia vera, also, along with Parkinson’s. Every day is a gift… whatever it holds, we hold with love. Precious indeed.
Thank you for your continued inspiration and encouragement. Happiest new year blessings of abundant wellbeing,
In gratitude,
Molly
Thanks so much for your kind words Molly. I knew Peter had Parkinson’s. I was not aware of PV. You are such a blessing to him. Love to you both.
Lovely and inspiring Christine ✨️ Love and Angelic blessings in this New Year!
Thanks so much Linda.