Live

Reflections on losing yet another friend to cancer.

As a quilter, I considered finding organizations to make comfort quilts for, in honor of my friend. I also thought about chemo caps, which she had informed us should only be called "caps". I had gone through this early last month when I learned a former coworker had lost his battle.

When we see our peers reaching the end of their journeys, we sometimes think of what we should do differently in our lives, how we can best honor them.

My mind wandered while I sewed yesterday, when tears had stemmed enough for thought to process. I had the chance a year ago to meet my quilting friends, including the one who just passed. I had let the chance slide by, mumbling the usual excuses of no time and no money.

The truth is that now is the only time we have, and there is no price you can put on being with friends and family.

If you are moved to raise funds for diseases or contribute to a cause in any way, that is great. But the best way we can honor their lives is to live ours.

Really live. Each acid-forming moment stuck in traffic. Every citrus-scented spring breeze. Laughter. Tears. Chocolate. Sunshine. Backaches. They are all a gift.

As the stress builds or the giggles overflow, give thanks. Then get back to living.

Now.