Loss

We went to see my chair-buddy Louis today.  The best thing that ever happened because of those three years in the big green chair was meeting him.  He is not so well.  For now he is in a physical rehabilitation center and I am not sure where he goes from there.  He wants desperately to go home.
I would want to go back home too.  He is so frail now and his health is declining.  We both teared up when we said goodbye today.  We know there are probably not that many more visits in our future.

Buddha taught that this life was about suffering.  I think the lessons of loss are the hardest.  The loss of health, of those we love, the loss of lifestyle.   Loss of any kind leaves a wake of heartbreak in its aftermath. Eventually after experiencing loss after loss, many end up in a sort of emotionless existence.  We look for ways to create numbness.  Sometimes it's work, sometimes drugs or alcohol.
I see it in my students at work.

I know that I carry the loss I have experienced in my life well.  Many who meet me think that I have never experienced much loss.  I think it is because of the peace I carry in my heart.  It's not that I don't grieve, I grieve heavily for my losses.  I have purpose in my life, purpose brings peace and satisfaction and hope.  I teach my students to find purpose, to learn to be of service, to give love and kindness.   It is how we get through the loss.

Tomorrow, may your Monday give you the opportunity to give love and kindness.