Today I went to the funeral of our cousin, Ed Boyd. He had many health issues over many years, and suffered much. However, his family is full of faith and hope and were so complimentary of the way he handled all that suffering. They said he never complained--I turned to Spence, and said, "You'll never be able to say about me, will you?" I am just blown away by people who go through so much and are so patient through their suffering.
One of the things that was amazing about Ed and his family--in spite of all that they were going through, we often got calls from them about how I was doing. It is not easy to look beyond your own situation when it is so critical and heart-wrenching, but that's exactly what they did for me. Each one of their family members that I talked with today was so genuinely concerned for me and so interested in how I was doing. What a lesson for us all to learn--to go beyond ourselves when we are hurting so much. That is not an easy thing to do. I was very touched by their sincere concern for me.
At the funeral they mentioned their oncologist several times...and the wonderful doctor that he is. At the end of the funeral, they called him up to speak, and I was so impressed. In fact, I was ready to switch oncologists. He was so warm and caring it was unbelievable. That is a trait that not every doctor has. He talked about Ed having esophageal cancer, and how he went through the chemo and radiation. It was a little hard for me to hear all that, because it hit so close to home. Still, I was very touched by what he said, and talked to the doctor afterwards. So, all in all, it was a very good experience for me--a true celebration of Ed's life and many wonderful tributes about the influence of one good man. So...onto the weekend, and hopefully another time at church. Take care, Louise
Louise, what beautiful words you said about this sweet man, and yes to go beyond ourselves when we are hurting so much is awe inspiring.
ReplyDeleteLouise, maybe you don't see yourself in the same light as others see you, because I do see you as the same person you spoke about above. I know your are, for example, I know this for a fact because only yesterday Cathy Williams (Ron and Gail Crismons daugher) called me to ask me to call the Bishop to see about another blessing for her mom in ER a few days ago, and she told me she called you as well.....and I know you are handling things in the background, always trying to help others even when you are in your own delema, so you are always going beyond yourself, and others are watching and know your heart felt thoughts for the down trodden and needy. Hopefully I can be that person like that someday once again. Chaz and I are both down a bit this week so hoping to make it without any hospital. feels like blockage inleft hand/arm! Hoping not a stroke coming on........I did schedule an
appt with heart doc next week (Dr. Stark) she was my moms doctor also.
So take care of yourself and get lots of rest for a few days at least and
give your body a chance to heal.
As always, I am a neighbor so call me if need be, and of course I still think you 24/7 .......you and yours are always in my heart, prayers and on the temple prayer rolls I call in once a week to Mesa, St George, UT as well as SLC, UT......(3 temples)
Have a good nite, and sleep well and dream beautiful dreams of days to come.
Peggy
Louise, YOU continue to inspire me....have a great weekend!
ReplyDeleteI am a bit behind in reading your blog. So first let me jump for joy that you are finally free of your feeding tube. That must be so wonderful!
ReplyDeleteOn another note, I am sorry about the passing of your cousin. I do agree with Peggy, it does sound like you when you describe how he was so compassionate even when he had his own health problems. You have a talent for loving and caring for people.
I hope that you will be able to get all the calories you need and keep getting stronger.
Love,
Annie
Dear Louise, I woke up today thinking about you and the life lessons you have taught me over the year. I am going to write them down and send them to you. This is another one you are doing right now. You are taking one day at a time and finding the joy in it. I love you.
ReplyDeleteAs I have said before, I don't know anyone with more friends than you. Do you think we would love to be around you and care about you so much if we thought of you as a complainer?! NO! I/we think of you as a caring, loving, fun person who is going through an EXTREMELY difficult life situtaion with grace and a very positive outlook!
ReplyDeleteIt was so nice to see you and your pretty smile today!
ReplyDeleteLet's see....who called me from the ICU asking how Jeff's surgery went. YOU are just as compassionate and just as thoughtful. WE LOVE YOU.
ReplyDelete