May 19, 2024

Living in Unconditional Love (167)

 

“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. Covid has proved to be a persistent problem, and many of the long-term effects are quite serious, and it has proven much more serious than flu.

05/19/2024                             I am not feeling well, so I am not sure how much I will be able to write. Shortly after mowing on Thursday, I came in and had a short rest, but afterwards I began to cough and hack. It continued through the night, and because I had pneumonia three times last year I went to the walk-in and had myself checked, but my lungs were clear. They recommended rest and waiting. It may be an allergy, but I have never reacted like this after mowing before, and this was my fourth mow. Saturday was a lost day; ate very little and dozed all day. My son Tim came out and brought me some cough meds that seem to help. I will rest for a few days. Sunday, I slept late, not waking up until 10. I have had a small breakfast and soup for lunch with no serious aftereffects. So, I am getting better.

I got my car back on Friday and it looks nice. It was painted, so I will not take it through a car wash for three months. That means I will be cleaning windows often as this peak bug season. Oh well.

The lilacs are extra beautiful this year. Many wonderful blooms. They look so nice lining my driveway and out by the rear patio.

My tree peony is blooming nicely, and the many other peonies are showing big fat buds. I planted 6 more a couple of years ago and they will be having their first good blooming season. I love peonies as they are very hardy, last over 100 years, and require little care.

The daylilies are all looking good, as are my regular lilies. It should be a good summer.

Meditation

Gentle One, You have reminded me this week that I am human and I need to take care of my body. I will probably forget shortly, but these periods of illness are a part of humanity. I ask Your blessing on my family and all who need aid. The world screams out for help, and we can do so little it seems. I am grateful for life and all I touch in in all ways, and I offer thanks.