Just A Second

It’s called Blink of An Eye, and every now and then Dame Fortune needs to reaffirm its reality in my life.

So it was this Saturday evening. The last day of the week has become my favorite day, beginning with a leisurely morning having no demands and allowing the luxury of two cups of my favorite black coffee. Later the now routine attendance at Saturday afternoon Mass accompanied by two friends provides the spiritual comfort of reaffirming my faith.

It had been a good day. My weekly blog had been written, I enjoyed the unusual luxury of a Zabar’s poppy seed bagel from my freezer, and I was wearing a new scarlet sweater that had just been delivered from my favorite East Hampton shop.

After returning from church, my friends and I routinely share a quiet dinner. The evening allows us an opportunity to share diverse political opinions as well as community and family news. It has become a time to enjoy the simple pleasure of breaking bread and yes, savoring an occasional glass of wine, together as our week winds down.

This Saturday was just a bit different. It was cold, the initial temperature drop of the year. One friend had already caught the first bug of the season. Consequently, the normally reserved table accommodating three was given to a larger group, and we were seated at one of the smaller ones.

The conversation was as lively and interesting as I have grown to anticipate, and our meal ended with the customary order for two coffees. The young, efficient server quickly brought them to the table and as he removed plates and we chatted briefly with him, one cup of steaming liquid turned over.

It puddled into my lap drenching me with searing pain. And as I cried out, I thought, “How could this happen?”

I never found out. Accidents defy logic and this one falls into that category.

And yes, I am okay. Traumatized, definitely, but without scar tissue or burns requiring hospitalization. However, once again, life has given me a needed reminder that I am not in control of my destiny.

The week of TV watching that caused such anguish dimmed as I wondered about the effects of a serious burn at my stage in life. The annoyance of an appliance that needed to be replaced disappeared, as also, did plans for Sunday afternoon. My guilt at not making progress with the new book instantly vanished.

While struggling to find a source of cooling liquid, I could not help but comprehend how life can change dramatically in just the blink of an eye. This Saturday I was given another reminder to enjoy each moment God grants.