I grew up in a rural town where everyone knew my name.
I was the-go-to babysitter, Suzy Greene.
A most-favorite Mom became a good friend through my twenties and early-thirties. Joanne was 41 when diagnosed with colon cancer, her boys by then in their early teens. I took my new baby girl, all pink and white in her carrying car-seat the last time I visited Joanne. There are no other words— Joanne was radiant. She was 42 and, being nearly 30 years ago, it was before regular screenings were routine, treatments were not as advanced, and it was caught late.
Glowing Joanne told me she had never been happier. She had found joy in the moment, in living.
I miss her to this day, but she was right. The moment is “where it’s at,” and there is beauty in it!
One of my sons turned 19 last week and my husband made an incredible dinner. It was the first time I did not bake my son’s cake, but oh, that Pepperidge Farm Coconut cake tasted heavenly. His best friend was visiting and his girlfriend was on Facetime through the dinner and singing of “Happy Birthday.”
It was the happiest moment I can think of in years. Our priest Fr. Arek visited earlier and my son took communion with me. It was a great day!
I’ll share the brilliant writing of a newfound friend of mine. Hers is not my journey, but it hints closely. It’s about as much self-disclosure as I’m up for, and indirect, at that. It is full of raw feeling, yet embedded with wisdom.
Enjoy today! In order to experience joy, to fully live in the moment, we must first contemplate that at some point in future, we all die. Memento Mori, Memento Vivere!
Carpe Diem!
Suzy Cornflakes 
Suzy, I hate that you have another challenge to face. However, whatever you may have to go through, I know you will do it with grace and the love of God. I wish we could rake up all the blessings we’ve been given like a pile of leaves, and jump into it and hide there from the all the things that threaten our peace of mind and health. Please know that I think of you and your family often and wish you all the very best. Much love, Wendy
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Wendy,
I apologize for the delay in response. What a lovely image—raking memories like leaves and jumping into them. I will imagine the many that flood my thoughts of late just like that! Know that I think of you often, as well, and that you and the family are in my prayers. Thank you!
With love,
Suzy
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