06 July 2006

Thankful



Walking through the courtyard, I chose to sit in the shade to get out of the sweltering sun and rest my worn feet. I had been walking for a few miles along the beach and found myself entering the courtyard of the church across the street.

I heard a muffled voice and looked up to see that the mass inside the church was being broadcast on a loudspeaker overhead in the tree above me.

No one else was in the courtyard except for statue of Mary and of St. Francis feeding the silent birds. There were candles and flowers placed at his feet.

I bowed my head. I prayed for Kerby, Doreen, Olga, Howard, and Michael. I thought about Luis, Cecilia and Fred who died. I prayed for Margaret who lost her father to ACC but continues to support us. I prayed for Zeljko's mom, Anda, who passed away last week.

I am thankful for simple things. For the beautiful garden that surrounds me. For the blue ocean across the street. For finding simple pleasure sitting under this tree. For the sound of the water fountain behind me.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Arlyn, Good to see you posting again. Please let us know how you are doing. You are missed on the ACCompassion board but I know sometimes you just need a break from it all.
Margaret Smith
Stage II ACC July 2004

following the sun said...

Margaret,

Thank your for posting a comment. I check in with the group even though I may not post. I look forward to meeting everyone in the fall. I'm always here if you need to talk any time of the day. Take care my friend. Arlyn

following the sun said...

Howard,

It's so great to hear from you! The ACC conference is planned for October 20 in Phoenix. Margaret and Troy are working on securing a group rate for the hotel. As soon as I hear more from them I will post it on this page and also send you an email. Take care.

Arlyn

Anonymous said...

How are you doing? My mother had ACC 6 years ago.