Many of us are at a time of life when we need more security and support than ever. This need may come from health issues, and if so, knowing we can depend upon another to care for us is a key to being able to deal with what comes our way. This week, in particular, I saw a few women dear to me need support, or need to offer support, and I am sending them warm and loving hugs. I realize that more should be said about the expression, translated from Hebrew, “Man plans and G-d laughs!” Because some had to miss an event that they planned on attending for months.

I was involved in a big event at our clubhouse that many were excited to attend. Those of us on the Board of the Women’s Club had been planning and planning (and, by the way, planning) this luncheon all summer and fall, and great food and a fantastic speaker were on the agenda. It promised to be very special. Many close to me were discussing what they were wearing, with whom they were sitting, the timing of arriving, etc., and the excitement was building. And then…the phone calls began. Covid reared its ugly head; unanticipated surgery, kidney stones, falls and neurological issues occurred…and these were just my friends or their loved ones.

Having missed so many important events in my own life for the well over 20 years I struggled before my ostomy, I never took for granted the ability to do what I intended to do. There were so many disappointments, so many times when my clothes were at the ready and I had to put them back in the closet. So many phone calls to apologize for not being where I was supposed to be. Even now, when a blockage prevents me from enjoying something special, I am reminded of those events. That is the human condition.

The takeaway for me is that we all need to know there is the support of someone in life, whether that is a spouse, child, aide, housekeeper, friend, or sibling. We need to know our well-being is paramount, treasured, and protected, and that we will do the same for another. These are challenging times in general and for my age group specifically. We have to step up and be there for others, perhaps lick our wounds for missing an event. But knowing we are supporting someone we love who is suffering is a greater calling and one that will be appreciated more than words can express. At the end of the day, that memory will be the most important to the ones we love.

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