As I sit here thinking back over the last few weeks events I take a deep breath and feel humbled.
I consider myself a strong person, able to endure adversities that most would walk away from. Holding a dying friend as he mumbles..."tell my kids I love 'em" and escorting his body home. Having his widow cry on my shoulder and pound on my chest screaming "why".
Telling the doctor...take the ventilator off my Mom...she doesn't want that and holding her hand as I sit with tears in my eyes as she slips from this world.
Watching my father with emphasema draw struggled breathes...holding my little brothers who are men to be admired and respected as salty tears roll down their faces. Telling myself "You are their big brother, hold them..hold them tight".
I remember growing up and thinking...this is just another day. They are never "just a day". A look, a glance, a touch, a word...my life has been influenced by the love, warmth and care of those around me and today...I feel very small and humbled by the people I call my friends. Thank you for blessing me with you presense in my life.