[Carol]

There is only one day for dying. All the others are for living and packing in as much life experience as possible. To be alive... one is always alive. To be embodied is a gift. It allows one the opportunity to spiritually advance and to develop compassion. I'm truly sorry for you loss and do not think I would fair well if my husband was not with me so truly I do understand. Yet, I have watched those around me who have lost someone be freed up to give their time to others who also need someone.

My mom lost my dad two years ago. She thought of her life ending because they were very close and living without him was a huge adjustment. Then she started going to the Senior Center and helping others her age. She brought one sick friend into her home and helped nurse her. She volunteered to read to children in the kindergarten class one morning a week. She drove another friend who couldn't drive around to the store and doctors. In the evenings she made rosaries for the poor in other countries and helped making food for the social hour after church on Sunday. Her motto was to keep busy and to help others. She is 84.

I truly hope I have the strength to carry on as she has - should I ever be faced with the same situation. We all have so much to give so the way I see it is to keep moving forward and giving while we can.