For One More Day
As we plod away tirelessly towards the December 25th holiday, many of us are reminded of those people who are no longer with us, or cannot help themselves. We get those reminders at the craziest times. I know when I smell certain aromas wafting through the air as someone is baking holiday cookies, I can't help but think of my grandmother. As I hear hysterical laughing by a child having fun during a snowball fight with his brothers and sisters, my thoughts drift to my cousin I lost when I was thirteen.
I've written in the past about the writer Mitch Albom, and his profound effect on me as I read his stories. I've talked about Tuesdays With Morrie and The Five People You Meet In Heaven. Now, he has a new book called, For One More Day. It is the story of a man who is allowed one more day with anyone he wants (so that he can make things right). He chooses his mother. You can just imagine where and how the story goes. Please read it!
However, that's not what this blog is about. I got an e-mail from Mitch earlier today that talked about his book and how appreciative he is for my continued support of him and his work. In the e-mail, he asked that we continue to think of those we lost, but to enjoy those who are still with us. Cherish those moments as if they would be your's or their last. It is the holiday season....isn't that what we are supposed to do.
Give your child a hug that has been long coming. If you give out hugs regularly, give them another one and tell that they get an extra one because you love them with all of your heart. Look forward to seeing your family as you get together. Call a long lost friend and tell them how much you appreciate them. As we are reminded all too often, that once it's over....it's too late to say the things you really wanted. If there is someone who did you wrong, call them and tell them all if forgiven (and mean it). Life is too short to hold those grudges. All they do is make the heart hard. Live every minute like you cherish it.
I read somewhere once that you should enjoy the moment, because it is the PRESENT. A present is a gift that should be enjoyed.
