“In your life, if you don’t do what you can’t do there is no problem, but if you don’t do what you can do, that is a trajedy.” — Sadhguru Joggi Vasudev
Sometimes all of us have had the experience of finding an activity that seems a natural fit. It is almost an unconscious process that fulfills our need to be of help, support, encouragement and service to others. I have met numerous individuals in my life that have given me pause, because of their unselfish acts of care, giving and love. I had the privilege of being in the company of one of those people recently. She has been a life long friend and suffered severe health challenges in the past several months. Due to these health limitations she has been unable to continue volunteer hospital work, that she has done for decades of her life. To those infirmed in a hospital environment needing emotional support, a bright smile, conversation, prayer, re-confirmation of healing, or just a few moments of caring this lady has been there. To many she has been an ever burning light, giving that welcomed focus of possibility for continued wellness and healing. This is a unique gift which very few are able to share, and to do so for decades is beyond a blessing in many lives. Stephen R. Covey expresses this manner of unselfishness in another way . . . “Priority is a function of context.”
I have always remained in awe of how this very dear lady has unfailingly given of herself to those in hospitals, nursing homes and hospice environments. It is truly a gift to continue this work, and do so as a ministry of love. Because of her recent health issues she been unable to continue this work, and as she shared with me a short time ago . . . “I truly love being with patients and their families. I look forward to doing that again very soon.”
Dedication to what we believe is sometimes a long time in arriving in our lives. Once it does, our journey becomes less clouded and more clarified. The lady that has given her life to others is a role model, and will not be known in newspapers, magazines, periodicals etc. No, she is a quiet majority that continues the work dictated by an inner devotion to someone other themselves. Yes, she has done this “ministry” for decades, and can’t wait to resume that role once again. Being 89 years young, she is unwavering in her focus to continue her work. She realized her own truth many years ago without question, uncertainty or hesitation. She found something distinctive within her spirit that Albert Schweitzer expresses in another way, “Truth has no special time of its own. It’s hour is now — always.” JLR