Joy of Life

Ever wonder what others do about fond memories of past loves?
Although I loved Katie, she was the daughter of a dear friend. I loved her from a distance...one of many that loved her and tried to help her fight her battle with cancer.
The story that follows this introduction is a true story of what her husband does to honor the memory of his past love.
What feelings arise if I allow myself to be fully open to remembering that person?
Katie battled a painful cancer and she still sang despite the pain. I too had some cancers, but although I didn't sing dealing with the cancers...the memory of her handling her devastating cancer helped me put my own in perspective. Her battle makes me appreciate each day just that much more...'life is short.'
What is it about that special someone that you still cherish?
Katie loved singing and she loved life. I put a high value on how she dealt with her battle, what she did when she thought she licked it, and how she and her husband Dean were a 'love-team' through the ups and the downs.
In particular, how did that person's presence in my life change me and how I experience the world?
I met Katie only once. It was a chance meeting at a class reunion. Her mother brought Katie and we talked quite a long time about personal values. I liked her and she liked me. We conversed by email later when I learned she had developed cancer. I tried to give her hope that she could beat the disease. I always liked life, but even I appreciate life so much more knowing how short it is and how you need to enjoy life every day. That's why I titled this story 'The Joy of Life.'
I wrote this to honor her; however it brings tears to my eyes every time I read it. Maybe this love story will have others appreciate what they have.