My friend died on Saturday, August 18, 2012. She was 53 years old...much too young to be gone. At least to all of us humans here on this earth, that age does not fit with our idea of a long life or when death "should" occur. But what age IS the right age for death?
I awoke Saturday and read in my morning spiritual passage that this could be "the best Saturday ever." And it seemed to be..a grand, glorious adventure sailing over the waters of the Caribbean, laughing and visiting pristine beaches with happy, joyful people. It was a magnificent day. Then I received the email that rattled my world. It contained just two simple words: "Jennifer died." And with those words, my soul began to search.
Why? I may never know the answer to the many "whys" that fill my mind. Why did she go so quickly? Why didn't death wait until I had seen her once more, my trip just 2 weeks away? Why did she die so young, with sons left to raise? And the biggest why I kept asking-why Jennifer? Why MY friend? The answers may not come clear to me, but I do know that they are there. Jennifer's death is as much a part of her life as her smile that lit up a room.
I know for sure that we are all here to live full, abundant lives. As I reflect on Jennifer's life and the way she existed in this world, I am also sure that she lived fully and abundantly. She grabbed life with passion and shook it, wringing every bit of love, joy, laughter and goodness that she could find. She gave without expecting return..to everyone she met. She was the glue, the leader, the friend.
In Jennifer's death, I see the circle of life complete. She was only 53..so young to die in our society's view. But she lived as full of a life as anyone I have ever met. I know there are lessons in this painful loss. I haven't seen them all yet, but I do know one. Whether 53 years old, or much younger, or much older, grab life. Don't wait. Live like there's no tomorrow. Love fiercely. Embrace everything.
"The best Saturday ever.."? I know that it WAS the best Saturday ever for Jennifer. And as the days slowly move on, I am beginning to realize that perhaps the reading that morning was correct. It was also my own best Saturday, for I was given a gift by a friend..a gift of wisdom. When we have given everything and lived our greatest life, whether 53 years old or much, much older, then the circle of life is complete. Jennifer showed us how to do this..and now her journey here is complete. It is our turn to live the lessons she taught us.
