My husband and I were recently having a conversation with another couple and reminiscing about fond memories and events. We were sharing stories of our history together as couples. The places that we had gone and the things that we had seen. They were the kind of stories that bring a smile to your face as you think of them.
With smiles all around, there was a slight lull in the conversation as we all took a breath. And in a hushed voice, our friend said something very profound. “These are the times that mean the most to me. Just sitting and talking with friends. This is the thing I value the most.” I was stunned and speechless. My eyes welled up with tears. But I knew that I could not allow them to betray me and run down my cheek.
His words were simple and very true. But it was the context that allowed them to slash right through me and into my heart. This person is about my age, but he is rapidly reaching the end of his journey. I would imagine that he thinks of his future in hours or days at the most. And he was saying that sitting here in his kitchen with us, right now, this was how he wanted to spend his last precious time. This brought him happiness.
I have never felt so in awe and so thankful to be sharing a few moments with someone. Because he was sharing a thought with us that would change my life. It was so simple and yet so very monumental.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have met this couple and shared this time with them. While it has been only a short time, I am confident it has been some of the most valued and valuable minutes of my life. And I hope that he somehow knows how much we will always treasure this time and his friendship.
I am sharing this message with you in his honor. So that you can benefit from his wisdom and clarity as he looks back on his life and sees what truly holds meaning and has earned a place in his heart.