Priorities

Sometimes, you receive news that makes you take a good hard look at your priorities.  I received an unexpected call today from a friend who told me that her mother had been diagnosed with Stage 3 cancer.  The early prognosis is not great, but they’ll learn more about her condition after additional tests later this week.  My prayers go out to her and her family during this difficult time. 

We are about the same age, and I shudder when I think “what if”.  What if the tables were turned?  How would I feel?  What would I do?  I’m one of those people who loves my family dearly, but I’m so bogged down with the demands of my daily life that I don’t see them much.  I guess I’m in denial.  I just want to believe that my parents will always be here for me, but the reality is that one day they will be gone.  One day, I may not be able to give them a big hug or say “I love you”. 

It’s times like these that makes you realize what’s really important in life.  It’s not the job, the activities, the cars, the money…it’s people…it’s your family.  For those who still have their parents and loved ones around, we should stop and let them know how much we love them.  Take some time off and spend it with them.  Who knows how much time you have left. 

Life is so fragile.  Nurture it, savor it and never take it for granted.