By Tracey Hall ~
The first two weeks of this new year was a traumatic time for myself and my family. We were witness to our Dads last days on Earth and supported our Mom as she faced the uncertainty of what lies ahead. There are no words to express the sorrow and I struggled with what I wanted to write about first, but while tossing ideas around in my head, one reoccurring theme kept popping up. It was the kindness shown to us by so many people, no matter where we were.
From the lady at the bank, as we did estate business to the insurance and financial brokers. To all the nurses pulling 12-hour shifts and the countless doctors patiently explaining the situation. To the aides simply cleaning the room and the dieticians trying to figure out the best course of nourishment. The chaplain, who came in every day and prayed with us and who later led the service with the utmost respect.
To the neighbors, friends, and family that took the time to stop by, call or simply leave a card in the mailbox, kindness shown through. To the funeral director and his assistant, they worked so hard on our behalf and the staff at Cape Canaveral National Cemetary whose simple, yet stark and beautiful funeral paid tribute to our Dad.
Even to my airline, who understood why I had to cancel my return trip home. They credited that flight and offered me a free return trip to see how Mom is doing.
These simple samples of warmth and kindness are what I’ll always remember about the beginning of 2020. As Maya Angelou said, “Be a rainbow in someone else’s cloud.” Thank you for all those beautiful rainbows.