Perspectives

While waiting for my mom to complete her cardiac stress test this morning, a man of about her age (late 70s) shuffled into the office alone. He was wearing an oxygen concentrator & canula and carrying a box full of medications for the staff to sort. He was moving very slowly, very deliberately and he was absolutely alone. 

After sitting a few minutes, having checked in with staff, his mobile phone rang. I couldn't  help but overhear his conversation with a creditor, he and I were alone in the waiting room and his raspy voice echoed. "Yes, I know. I'm sorry to be so late with it. I'm at the doctors office about to have a test on my heart but I will take care of it as soon as I'm done here."  There was more but you get the picture. 

Mom finished up, emerged and we left. As we exited the building, there sat an ancient, beaten-up green Cadillac, parked almost perpendicular to the lines which marked the handicapped spot.  In my imagination, I knew who was its driver. 

Of course, I can't tell you this gentleman's life situation with any degree of certainty but certainly feel as though I got the vibe.  Mom is so fortunate to be comfortable at her stage in life with family who care enough to participate in important events. My brother who lives locally and I who do not find ways to split filial responsibility. To our great fortune, Mom is generally fit and content.  I don't know which she values more: her independence or the knowledge that, should she need us, we will be by her side. 

Why do I share this with you here, you might ask?  Why not?  I like to share important things with the people who are meaningful in my life. 

Some things just matter more than others.