Today, I would like to share a beautiful hard thing that happened this morning.

We said our goodbyes to a cherished member of my spiritual center who is now under hospice care. Today marked her final celebration service with us. She is not only a dear friend but a remarkable soul and an incredibly brave woman. Her resilience and fortitude have been a great source of inspiration for me. Her warm smile and spirited nature never fail to brighten a room. It’s especially heart-wrenching because she is in her thirties.

Life, as we know, is not always fair; perhaps it was never meant to be. It simply unfolds in ways that can be difficult to comprehend. This moment is one of those times.

Saying goodbye today left me with profound sadness and a heavy heart. Yet, I am also grateful for the chance to bid her farewell while she is still here.

Towards the end of the service, an announcement was made that we would “raise and praise” her. One of the ways we express our love and appreciation for others. The entire community gathered around her in the foyer, forming a circle while one member gently wheeled her around the circle, allowing her to see everyone’s faces and connect with each person.

A profound stillness filled the foyer. Each individual present deeply understood the importance of the moment as we embraced her, shared laughter, and offered our support as she prepares for her transition. She will forever remain in our hearts.

The community collectively poured out love to her, cherishing this moment to receive her love once more.

This experience evoked a multitude of emotions – sadness, gratitude, and a sense of peace. 

In such moments, when we confront the fragility of life and the depth of human connections, I am reminded of the beauty and resilience that resides within each of us. 

I am filled with sorrow as I witness my friend nearing the end of her journey, yet I am thankful for the lessons on courage she has imparted to me. I find solace knowing she has found peace within herself. What transpired today was LOVE, magnified and overflowing. This encounter has left an indelible mark on me.

In navigating the intricacies of life and grief, I am reminded of the delicate balance between joy and sorrow, love and pain. Each moment is a precious gift, every connection holds significance, and every farewell presents an opportunity to express profound gratitude and love.

The unity and support displayed by our spiritual community, as we encircled our friend with love and compassion, reinforces the power of human connection and the resilience found in unity. It serves as a beautiful testament to finding solace in shared love and compassion during times of sorrow. A testament to our ability to do beautiful, hard things. 

With love,