Wednesday, September 15, 2010
I was fortunate to work with "Miss Elizabeth" (a name that one of our patients called her that always brought a smile to her face when I said it) at Arden Hill and to spend some special times outside of work. It was always a joy to see her. Her first concern was always how I was doing. We could re-connect instantly even if we hadn't seen each other in a while. Whether at work or over the produce at Price Chopper, we shared our thoughts and feelings, our fears and our joys, and our faith. We prayed for each other and for those we were concerned for. We laughed together. She was courageous and graceful, serious but girlishly silly and always a lady. I will miss talking about parish priests and their homilies, our work and the twists and turns of our lives and how our religion and spirituality made all the difference in how we continued to move forward. I was glad that she trusted me enough to ask my advice, discuss her doubts and the pain she never wore on her sleeve or allowed to affect her professionalism and love and concern for others. Her accomplishments and struggle with quiet courage will always inspire and motivate me to do the best I can do; to trust in the Lord despite the cost or burden. She was a "tough Bronx gal" with a heart of gold and I loved her. I will think of her often and I will never forget her. I used to kid her about her "Breakfast of Champions" (a serving of bacon from the cafeteria) but we shared that as well and I think of her every time I get one. I will pray for the Lord to comfort her family and many friends. I'm so glad she was able to experience the joy of being Grandma. I know that she has already met the Lord and is free of pain and grief and the burdens she carried. I rejoice in that, though her parting leaves such a great space in the lives of those who loved her. May our Lord bring them comfort, healing grief and inspiration and courage like our dear Betty's.
