Today Is Precious

I am reminded today that there are no guarantees for a tomorrow. Being close to people who are fighting a life threatening illness is a sad, yet a refreshing reminder of the importance of being grateful for today. Sick people do not want to be pitied, they want to be seen as whole. I listen intently to their fears and concerns, realizing that it is often only my ears and empathy that they need. And, sometimes they may need practical help with navigating their medical care, family dynamics, and personal disappointments. But, nobody needs the same thing, therefore, we must all listen...we must observe...and only then shall we answer the question for ourselves of  how we can help.