May 21, 2023

Living in Unconditional Love (115)

 

“Love flows from God to humans without effort:

As a bird glides through the air without moving its wings-

Thus, they go wherever they wish united in body and soul,

Yet separate in form.”

–Mechtild of Magdeburg

 

My wife Eileen died from esophageal cancer in February 2020 one year after being diagnosed, 60 years after we met on Long Island. Then my brother Tom became ill (not COVID), and I spent a total of six weeks being with him in Ohio, but he died in October 2020. My sister-in-law Sue Mahoney died from Covid-19 in January 2021. On top of it all stood the pandemic, locking everyone down almost two years, and even though it is abating, I wear my mask some of the time I am out among people, unlike most.

 

05/20/2023                                      I spent an exhausting day at a farm with lots of kids and parents, but most of all with Dan, Alesandra, Barbara, and most important the three girls. Madison slept most of the time, but Maria and Mackenzie had a wonderful time running around and exploring. We even had a short hayride over to another play area which is where they have their fall festival featuring so much more I am told. They have lots of animals (mostly goats and a few lamas) to look at through fencing, and lots of play areas for the kids, and the girls were trying to use them all! In the fall area they have a replication of Stonehenge that is full size, and quite impressive.

The week has been busy, with lots of playtime for the young ones. It is a wonder to see the energy that is displayed, and the laughter and joy (and occasionally tears) that fills the air. I am filed with joy to be here amidst the hubbub of a young family even though I do miss my hobbies I enjoy when I am home. I usually watch all the excitement as I am too stiff to join on the floor. Age does slow one down, especially trying to get up from the hay wagon we took back and forth at the farm.

I was thrilled to see all the young parents at the farm, both men and women, helping with the children and joining in the fun. It gives me hope for the future to see the next generations raising joyful children. The joy of a child is one of the most rewarding sights a person can have.

Life is full of surprises. My oldest grandchild just turned thirty, and the youngest is not quit two months. Quite a spread. Watching them grow up over the years has been a joyful wonder that Eileen and I watched in awe in the past, and now of course it is only me, but I am positive Eileen was watching today smiling and laughing along with us. I miss being able to share this with her and joining her, holding her hand as in the past, as we would walk with the little ones in joy over the years.

We returned quite late today (Saturday), so I think I will keep this short.

Meditation

Gentle One, I have received such joy in just observing the little ones in their bubbling joy. I am grateful for the chance to be able to be among them, and it fills my heart with love and joy to be here. I am amazed I am still able to enjoy the noise and joy that occurs in a busy household filled with young children. Love fills every corner and overflows to all who join in the family.