Blessings, Miracles

It’s been a week of minor complications possibly influenced by my reactions to more snow, old age and undoubtedly, the dark days of February,

A highly respected neighbor boarded the ferry early this week. While Tom had been blessed not only with longevity (100) and acuity, both shared with his life’s partner, death is always a reminder of other losses.

Then without warning, the ugly spectrum of politics invaded my space. Twice I was forced to make a choice. Either join the escalating arena of apologies, accusations, recriminations, offensive language or retreat to the privacy intended for the poll booth.

I chose the latter, relinquishing communication with a cherished internet group and the possibility of losing a new found friend. It is a decision I would make again. God willing, I and other Americans will make their electoral choice privately without rancor or irresponsible vocabulary.

As I sought refuge from personal chaos, I remembered how long ago God helped me find my path,

On that second day of a new year sitting in a dingy college classroom in Brooklyn, I was 19. I was also uneasy pondering about the escalating friendship I shared since childhood with a young man from “the neighborhood.”. He had unexpectedly introduced me at a New Years Eve party as “My Girl.” That was not true. I was his friend, destined never to be any more. Foolishly, I assumed he understood that.

When the crowded late evening class disbanded, I noticed another student walking towards the exit. Although we were both enrolled in the same speech class for the six month semester, our paths had never crossed.

Suddenly I found myself saying a quiet prayer, “If I could have him, I would never want another.” Realizing how absurd that was, I gathered my books and headed toward the nearby subway for my trip home to Columbus Circle.

Yet, my quiet prayer hidden in an unspoken wish was answered. For the first time. I was not alone waiting for the D train that cold night. The tall young man and I not only traveled together on the same subway car but from that moment on shared our world, our lives and our love. We were allowed that miracle for over half a century.

And how futile minor complications are compared to the many miracles and unexpected blessings of life.