I can't get Tim McGraw's song, "Live like you are dying", out of my mind today. This is a tough topic for a sunny summer day, but a topic that many families can't ignore and often face alone.
This week I have been hugging my girls extra tight. Grateful that I can.
Sadly others in our area are waking up knowing that this hug, kiss or "i love you" may be their last.
While you enjoy your day, I ask that you take a moment and stop and think of others not as fortunate as yourselves. Today I am taking more than just a moment to send out a prayer for strength and peace to Jose "Angel" Mojica and his family. You may have been joining me as I followed Angel's fight against leukemia. Our community has come out and supported his family through various fundraisers and even a bone marrow drive held at Samuel Adams Brewery. This has been a six year battle that Angel has fought with his family by his side, and a community offering support and prayers. I know his family has appreciated all this community has done to support them through this very difficult time.
Sadly, I am once again asking for prayers and well wishes for Angel and his family. Today, as many of us are heading to work, the pool, or just lounging, Angel is heading home from the hospital. This trip isn't a moment to rejoice, but a chance for Angel to go home and spend private time with his family. Angel wanted a chance to spend time with his puppy, a gift from the Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley.
Many years ago when my mother faced her first battle with cancer, spending time with family became her first priority. She was insistent that we not miss an opportunity to be together. There were times I felt she was going overboard. Then my brother died suddenly. Not giving us the chance to tell him one more time that we loved him or appreciated him. After that, I tried not to miss an opportunity to be with my family and friends. I try not to leave the house without saying good-bye and "I love you". I try to be sure my friends know they are appreciated.
As Tim McGraw sings,..... "And I loved deeper and I spoke sweeter,
"And I gave forgiveness I'd been denying......Some day, I hope you get the chance, "To live like you were dyin'." Like tomorrow was a gift, And you got eternity, To think about what you’d do with it. An' what did you do with it?
An' what can I do with it? An' what would I do with it? "
Today I ask that you appreciate your gifts and be grateful for all that you have in your life. And take some time to pray and offer comfort to those less fortunate. This isn't a time to judge, or tell people how to live their lives. But a time for compassion, caring and forgiveness. Appreciate the day you have been given and make it a good one!
To Jose, I offer prayers and comfort as you complete your journey. You have been a warrior and fought hard, often with a smile on your face. I hope you get the chance to give your puppy a hug and feel the love your family has for you.
To all my readers, thank you for your support. To my family and friends, I love you and appreciate you.
Hugs, enjoy your day!
