This week I witnessed a very precious demonstration of love. Jack and Evelyn are a married couple who attend my weekly aqua arthritis class. They are in their mid 80's. Evelyn is afraid of the water (why is she in this class?-because Jack loves the water!!)
Frequently when our class is over, Evelyn and Jack would stay in the water to have a swimming lesson together. Evelyn would lie on her back and attempt to float without panicking and Jack would gently brace her head up holding her under her neck and he would lead his wife of over 60 years of marriage around the pool. The sweet look on his face and her trust in him made other students in my class pause to watch this example of love.
Well, Jack has neuropathy in his legs and is hard of hearing. This week as he climbed out of the pool and was reaching for his cane, his feet slipped and he fell back into the water. He hit his chin on the side of the pool and his left side was very red from getting scraped. He was bleeding and disoriented. My hero husband jumped into the pool when he saw this happening and tried to hold this very tall (over 6ft 5inches), big man up. Dear Evelyn ran back to see what happened. I looked in her eyes as I tried to explain. In her eyes I saw such concern, love, compassion and fear as she tried to ascertain what should happen next. We did call 911 and Jack went to the hospital.
To conclude: When all is said and done, all that matters is that one beloved person we might be blessed to have in our life. All that matters is cherishing every morning I get to greet Frank and every night holding hands as we fall asleep.
I realize many wonderful men and women do not have this "true love" kind of joy and I trust in a Loving God who will bless them with this for eternity. But, for now, thank you Frank for cherishing me and loving me unconditionally. Wherever you are- I am home. Happy Valentines Day.
