I just returned to my desk after a visit to Indiana to spend time with my family for Thanksgiving. I guess I am at the age where I often feel nostalgic and cherish memories of my childhood years in Ohio. This visit was special in that I was re-uniting with my “siamese twin”, my friend for 18 years before I moved away from Ohio. We had lost contact and re-connected several times over the years. Both of us not living in Ohio at different times. She was my friend who shared everything, good times and bad. We had similar family issues to deal with and always found comfort in each other. Nancy and I re-connected about a year ago. It was so great for me to talk with her again by phone. She had found me through my sister. We made plans to spend time together when I came home to Indiana. My sister kindly hosted both of us at her home for the 10 days.
Nancy met me at the airport with my two sisters. It was good to see she had aged as I had. We both were not the slim figured women that we had been, but who is ? It was not long before we felt the old connection that bonded us for 18 years. We reminisced and recalled memories we both hold dear. Laughter was frequent as we remembered our foolish pranks and silly times. I had so much joy in just hearing her remember and recalling the old dreams we both used to share. It was a great visit for me and I left Indiana feeling a little sad, but so grateful. My sadness came from hearing about how difficult Nancy’s life had been at times. None of her dreams came true and bad luck seemed to be more the case than good. She now has several health problems and has difficulty getting around. Worst of all, a month ago she lost her 47-year old daughter who died in her sleep. She still awaits an autopsy report to determine cause of deatn. As she struggles to cope with losing a child, it was difficult to find any words to give her comfort. I could only give her my love and allow her to cry the tears whenever she needed. I felt so helpless when we parted. My prayers now include her every night in hopes she will find some peace with her remaining daughter. May God give her some special blessings.
The gratitude I came home with is for how lucky I am to have had a relatively good life. I was fortunate to achieve an education, live many places, travel extensively, have 3 great sons, and good health. I went home also to celebrate my birthday. The week before I left, my annual physical results were all positive saying I am in good health. Seeing my friend and hearing about her unfortunate life reminded me of how blessed I have been in so many ways. I had to pinch myself when I thought of all the blessings I have received through my work in Guatemala. I was reminded of all the friends I have there through the emails I received wishing me happy birthday. I am one fortunate woman and for that I am thankful
Now it is time to prepare for Christmas. I am trying to get into the spirit by putting up the tree. It will be my first time to have an artificial tree. I have to say it does not excite me the way a fresh one does. Oh, well ! everything changes. In addition, the January group is coming together. It seems people are wanting to go at the last minute. In the last 2 days 4 people have signed up. The March group is coming together also. There will be 16 students and 3 teachers from Rundle College as well as the dental team.
That’s all for now, till later-
Jan
