On Intimacy

Why is it that it often takes tragedy (or suffering) to find intimacy? In the midst of this difficult time, the four of us (Don, Corrine, me, and Angela) had a very special time together this evening. We cared for one another. Shared with my mother the deep love and affection we have for her. And we read scriptures together. I felt as if I was living in the ever so illusive "good 'ole days" before cell phones, blackberrys, televisions and the internet. We lived life together. In the midst of suffering we found comfort.

My mother was very tired today. Fortunately, there was not any pain to speak of. She did, however, spend much of her day in sleep. Mom's moments of lucidity are much fewer now. They are minutes at a time instead of hours at a time. I am thankful that as I write she is sleeping peacefully in the room next door. There is no doubt that her days with us are few.

Before going to bed, she whispered to us that she would like to read parts of the bible together. A few thoughts...

Paul wrote in his letter to the Colossians "For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how orderly you are and how firm your faith in Christ is."

He later continues "clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity."

These are thoughts on how faith in Christ can manifest itself in this world. Soon my mother will be absent in body. She will, however, be with us in spirit. Let us continue to be reminded of the most important things in life and pursue everything that is good and perfect.

Turn off the TV. Slow down. Be with each other and pursue, even work for, deeper relationship with one another. Don't wait for tragedy or suffering to experience the fullness of life.

Goodnight.

Steve