I like the phrase: health care. There is so much in that phrase that it seems almost too rich with meaning, to suffused with importance, and too electrically charged to be used in our current world. We live in a world of distractions, of ease and convenience, and of a never-ending saccharin stream of sappy, vapid pleasantries. How are you today, one may be asked. But the answer is always positive, as if it were a ghastly affront to be otherwise. And certainly no one really cares to hear if they are not ok. Besides, what could one do?
Much, really.
Health care is so much more than the simple caring for one's body and physical needs. There is an emotional, even spiritual aspect of one's soul that requires just as much sustenance and maintenance as the physical. Perhaps more. Because there are tests for the conditions of the body, and corrections can be relatively easily made to rectify all but the most serious of ailments. But what of the illnesses of the heart? Who can bind up a broken heart? Who can speak healing words of affirmation to a friend? How can a person recover from the effects of spiritual anguish and trouble?
Amid the debate about health care, we should make sure that we are caring for people. That the interactions between professionals and patients is one of a human nature. For we are all brothers and sisters, fellow travelers on this mortal coil, and we need to rely on one another.
Thus, in my mind, health care is not just a matter for debate. It is not a right or a privilege. It is the very essence of life itself. It stems from every friendship, every communication, every smile at a stranger in a grocery store. It is in the laugh of a child. It is in the night sky full of stars. And it is in the promise of a sunrise full of opportunity and joy.
Those who love each other know how a kind word can make the difference, how a merciful and tender act can turn the night to day, and how the knowledge and feeling of real love can make the burden of this life seem bearable, even light. People should tell each other how they feel. Why wait? Why not just say, I love you! I care for you deeply and want you to be happy! I will do anything for the favor of your smile!
Life is short. Let's care for each other.
I love you.
Yesterday Ellie was baptized. She turned eight on January 27, 2020, and she made the decision to be baptized. I want to tell you a little bit about Ellie. I have never met a child that is quite like Ellie. She is full of life and fire and joy and light. She knows no fear and is infectious in her passion for life and for goodness and for FUN!!! Above all things, she seeks the joy and fun in life. She is also wickedly clever and funny, she’s a delight to be around and makes everyone feel so good. Because she is happy, she wants everyone else to be happy. I first met sweet Elizabeth in 2018, and on the day I met her she was not feeling well. We decided that a movie would be a fun thing for a sick little girl, so I brought one of my favorites to share with her - The Neverending Story. When I got to the house, I picked her right up. It had been a very long time since I was able to pick up a girl, and she snuggled right into my arms. Her poor sick body was warm, but I was more impressed ...
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