Recently, someone I work with made the transition. The death was sudden and unexpected. Many people were shocked, upset and in a state of disbelief. It made me start thinking that we can so easily take people for granted. We can so easily think that they will always be here. In fact, often times we are immersed in unrealistic expectations of others and, when they do not respond as we would like, we move into a state of judgment and blame. We withdraw or push them aside, thinking we will deal with this later. Sometimes that later never comes.
In the memorials that I have facilitated, people are often riddled with guilt about the way they have or have not treated someone. They are upset that they have forgotten to show how much they really care. They have been in extreme states of unforgiveness and will never have the opportunity to make amends.
As I contemplated this person’s life and our interaction, I really began to scan my mind about those wonderful moments of unexpected connection. Those moments when we stop to chat and share lovely interactions of deep meaning and truth are important. It is those moments that I treasure most in life. It is those times that make me grateful that people are so important to me. I love connecting, and I love hearing about life experiences. In fact, I believe one of the reasons that we are here is to connect in these intimate moments. I don’t think anyone will care how much work I did when I am no longer on this planet. People will care about my heart, my joy and my willingness to be present.
I invite you to take some time to connect or reconnect with the people you care about. Treasure these people. Remind them that they are important. Unexpected “love taps” make a difference. You are important and your love is essential to more people than you know. Please treat today as if it is your last, and shine your light for all to see.
Take a moment to remember this:
Today, I remember that interacting with people is a gift that I can share easily and effortlessly.
