I've seen this saying hanging on the wall in the care center where my dad spent his last days. It's a phrase often spoken there as well. And it's true.
It's kind of sad that for many, when life is supposed to get easier––job challenges, financial struggles, rebellious teenagers all a thing of the past––health challenges arrive on the scene. And it may not just be one's own health, but that of a spouse or other loved ones. Broken hips, bad knees, cataracts, uncooperative hearts ... the effects of those carefree beach days soaking up the sun start messing with the skin ... Almost overnight one realizes he or she is falling apart. Then all the character building, stamina, and faith garnered over the past years gets called into action as one bravely faces the challenges of each new day.
I think one of the hardest things is losing friends to death. Being the one that is still here. It gets very lonely.
So, the strong get going, facing each new trial head on with faith, determination, acceptance, and a lot of guts. Indeed, no sissies.
True words.
ReplyDeleteThis is really touching. I've been thinking about this a lot lately, especially considering that my dad is facing a potential health scare. You are so right that years of character building get suddenly called to action... and it is lonely.
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