I am emerging from the woods where I spent the last ten days with my 91 and 96-year-old parents. What special days. I had the opportunity to take care of each of them. I cleaned their houses, organized their stuff, cut their hair and nails, walked with them, swam with them, built fires and sat with them, bought delicious food, prepared, and served them. It was deeply satisfying to see how hard simple things have become for them and be able to make things easier and more pleasurable. They were so grateful. We listened to old Olivia Newton-John and Simon & Garfunkel records. We all took turns telling stories slowly and loudly. There was plenty of silence but not the scary kind. Peaceful. We looked out over the pond and watched the leaves begin to turn bright red, electric pink, and yellow against a wall of greens.
After 35 years of divorce, it was so good to see the mutual respect and kindness they had for each other.
Letting go of your mind as you know it can be frightening. Having someone there to hold your hand through it is precious for everyone.