Death, Life and Love

On Tuesday of this week I awoke to the sound of my best friend Frank sobbing by my bed.  He informed me that his 21 year old niece in Oakland had been shot in the head that night while she lie sleeping in her bed by a stray bullet from a drive by shooting.   When the police came to their house and asked her mother if she heard any shots she said no.  As they entered her daughter's room she found her daughter bleeding from the head while her sister lay sound asleep next her her in the same bed.

She was later pronounced dead at the hospital.  She has a 1 year old daughter who will never see her mother again alive.  In a moment this beautiful innocent young woman had her life taken from her.  

In trying to make sense of this senseless event, I tried to find words to comfort my dear friend and his family I live with.  I was speechless and shocked.  I had no words, only empathy of the pain and grief my friend was experiencing.

The following day I received a phone call from my brother that my 92 year old grandmother had just experienced a massive stroke and was expected to die within the week.  Now death was even closer to me.  

Sadness and regret surged through my heart.  My soma was vulnerable and raw.

I was planning to see my grandparents next month in Florida.  I had not seen them since my injury and knew their days on this earth are numbered.

As I sat with this news I contemplated what it meant.  And then I began to cry.  First, tears of sadness and loss, and then tears of love and appreciation flowed for my family and friends.

"Love, love, love...love is all there is" - the Beatles

I have continued to feel this enormous field of love this entire week.  I am moved to tears for almost no apparent reason.  And now I realize that this is what death means to me...an opportunity to appreciate life and love all those dear to my heart.

I feel so alive right now!  I am sharply present to the combination of love and tenderness that I feel towards everyone...even the stranger to the street.

So this is my message to you.  Be appreciative and grateful for today because tomorrow may not come.  Life is a fragile and should never be taken for granted.  And right now, the present moment, is all we truly have.  

The past is history, the future a mystery, and the present is a gift...so appreciate it :)

Be grateful for all you have in your life.  Love is the most powerful energy in the universe and will transform all.  Love your friends and your enemies, just love for no reason.

Blessings...

Rafe