COUNTING BLESSINGS

Seventy-four year old “Ben” suffers from bile duct cancer. Ben has been divorced twice. He has six children from those two marriages. Only two of Ben’s children live locally, but all deeply care for their father and are supportive as able due to geographic distances.

Ben lives with “Monica”, who is one of his daughter’s best friends. Several years ago, Monica needed a place to live and Ben offered a room in his home. Monica is twenty-five years younger than Ben and looks to him as a “father-figure”. Monica is now Ben’s primary caretaker.

It works out well for all as Ben’s children so appreciate Monica’s devotion to their father. The two children, who live nearby, come on the weekends, giving Monica some down time. It is a perfect solution for a difficult situation.

Ben and Monica live in a rough part of town. Their home is a bit run down, but it doesn’t bother either of them at all. Ben is such a positive person and looks on the bright side of things. He so appreciates all that he has in his life. He doesn’t count his possessions, but his family and friends are what he cherishes the most.

When I was visiting today, he so thanked me for coming. He appreciates all who visit him; family, friends and hospice staff. Ben was telling me that the past four days have been rough and he did not feel well and spent the time in bed. He said he was very weak and just wanted to sleep. Today he was feeling much better and was able to be up and about.

Bad days don’t get him down as he knows his cancer is winning. He can still find joy in his days though. He is amazing as he knows the important things in life are not what we have, but who we have. By those standards, Ben is a millionaire. I admire his insight and know he will continue to teach us all the true value in life.


COUNTING BLESSINGS

　
　
The first thing one notices
are four rundown cars in the drive.
Flat tires, dirty windows, dents.
A long time since driven on the road.

He greets you at the front door
in worn out pants; a tee shirt full of holes.
He directs you to sit in the darkened room
on furniture comfortable, but worn.

These things are all easily over-shadowed
by his amazing, welcoming smile.
He treats you like he does his friends;
a special guest into his home.

He is so glad you are there.
He lights up as you sit down.
He wants to share his stories about his life;
the countless blessings that he has.

He’ll talk about his family and his friends.
He’ll share his strong faith in God.
He is so thankful for all those he loves.
Not much can get him down.

His cancer, though, is taking a toll.
He has more bad days now than good.
I don’t doubt that he’ll continue
to look on the bright side,
appreciating what he has;
         counting his blessings,
                              forevermore.