Love lives beyond death.

On Monday I learned some sad information... the lovely woman from my childhood that I mentioned in the post Every Moment Matters passed away this Sunday. Since December she was making progress in rehabilitation, and there was hope. But after complications with a bloodclot, she eventually became dependent on life support. Her loving family, having watched her pain for so long, made the difficult decision to end her suffering.

Though I shed tears for this beautiful woman gone from our world, and for her dear family that must begin a life without her, I also know - as we must all come to know - that she is never truly gone. Her love lives on through her memories shared and legacy created and friendship made. This woman's existence was a gift to the world, as is all existence. And her precious gift does not end with her passing. True love lives throughout all time.

Dearest L.A.K., you are love and you are loved.

In the meantime, while our hearts transition to this new phase of life (as they do for all of us when facing life after tragedy or darkness), we must allow our inner selves to heal. Tears are healthy and deserve their time. So let us all remember this thought, a loving insight exchanged between my sweet father and I after my first significant heartache: "Allow yourself to feel whatever you need to feel." 

And in the end, we will all come out stronger and more full of love. ♥

Every moment matters.

Today I learned that a lovely woman from my childhood, a family friend who worked in the front office at my elementary school, had an unfortunate accident a few months back. The accident itself was seemingly small, but recovering from it grew into more health issues. And unfortunately, she is now facing the possibility of life in a nursing home. A kind and loving woman in her fifties, who only a few months ago seemed in good health. All she wants is to return home, and her sweet husband can't bear to tell her that she might never go back.

Though my health condition is quite different, I have felt the longing in her heart. I have ached for home and felt the fear that I might never see it again. And so for her, I weep. For her husband, and her daughters. For all those who love her. I weep for all these beautiful souls.

But there is hope. This beautiful woman, even with this likely fate, can still find love and happiness in life if she keeps her heart open to it. Love is everywhere, even in the darkest places.

And we, the witnesses of this harrowing story, have much to learn from it. We must always cherish the moment, give love freely, hold our loved ones near, say I love you, and most of all... mean it.

Mean every moment. Because every single moment matters.

Much peace and love to you, my beautiful ones. ♥
Rosie

Loveful, Thoughtful Friday

Hello beautiful souls. ♥

This Friday I share with you some words and a quote from a beautiful reader named Megan. She writes:

"The Avett Brothers has always been a very special band to me, and this song in particular carries meaning. It was the first song by them that I ever heard, and it's always summed up my feelings about love. Love doesn't have to be fancy. It doesn't have to mean expensive gifts, detailed dates, or every spare minute spent together. Sometimes it's as simple as a dance in a crowd of singing people, under the stars, on a chilly October night..."

'Well, life is ever-changing,  

but I can always find a constant 

and comfort in your love.

With your heart, my soul is bound 

and as we dance I know 

that heaven will be found.'

(Swept Away by The Avett Brothers)

Megan, you bring up a beautiful and significant perspective on love. In this case, we are speaking of romantic love. But I believe this mindset could translate into our love for anyone. Love should not be about prices, gifts, extravagant dates, or grand romantic gestures. With family and friends, it shouldn't be about expensive meals or holiday gifts or the favors you do. Love, genuine love, flows effortlessly. Instead of thinking of ourselves and wondering what our loved ones can do for us, let's turn it around. Think about what we can do for the ones we love. We should always try to show our love. And in it's purest, most genuine form. Act from the heart, and only from the heart. This practice will likely fill our lives with inexplicable warmth and beauty.

Thank you so much for writing in, Megan. Your sharing has added light, insight, and love to our community. More questions and comments ahead in the coming week. I encourage all you beautiful readers to join in the love and fun; send in your questions, comments, quotes, insights, and anything else. 

All is welcome, all is love. Send it here: we.are.one@inbox.com

Enjoy your weekend, sweet readers.

Take a step outside and smell the lovely air for me. ♥

Peace and love.

Rosie