The Life Fully Lived:2005

There are many touching moments as we visit families.

One cannot say that any of them are more touching than others.

I cannot write of them all because there are so many.

I do want to tell you of one woman we visited.

She was of a great age and recently had had many health problems. It doesn't matter as much what they are as how she has lived and who was surrounding her. Her family members were there with her. Recently they have sacrificed much to give her round the clock care. It is wonderful to see them giving back to someone who has given to them over the years. Her eyes glistened with a spirit that has not died, as she watched her grandson play the part of Rudolph with the antlers on his head and a red nose on his own. We have to mention that he was in his thirties and being a very good sport. She even laughed a little when Santa gave him bunny ears at first. "That Easter Bunny's playing pranks again!" She watched as her great grandchildren received their gifts from Santa. She watched her daughter with pride and thankfulness. She has given her unselfish care. It is not hard to see the love her posterity has for her. They planned our coming, with her in mind so she could experience it. The body grows old and deteriorates.

It is part of life. She apologized for her condition as we left.

Apologize? My dear, you have nothing to apologize for.

For as long as we have known you, you have been kind, generous, full of fun and life.

Just look at the posterity that you have.

Apologize? For what? You have had the life fully lived.
May God go with you.

Mrs. Claus