SO GRATEFUL

"Marie", sixty-two, was recently diagnosed with liver cancer. Marie also suffers from liver damage from using street drugs for almost fifteen years. She has been clean for over thirty years, but her body has not done well. In addition, to liver disease, Marie also suffers from cardiac disease.

We drove into this small mobile home park where travel trailers were all around. Marie only moved in a month ago after being homeless for a short while. She had no possessions as was forced to move out of a rented room because she could not afford the rent. It was then she lost all of her belongings. Marie was so excited about decorating her new home. Creativity is one of her special gifts. Also, she is a strong survivor. She has slowly collected the necessary items in order to maker her Fifth Wheel her home.

Marie had such an upbeat personality. She spoke of the horrors of her life so factually. She shared how her mother never wanted her. "I can forgive her, but I can never forget what she did." Marie has a large group of supportive friends who eagerly help her when the needs arise.

Marie was so grateful for her life as it was. I so admired her for her strength. She also is a perfect role model for living a positive life. Life is all about perspective. Marie's attitude keeps her in good spirits. She is realistic and so aware of what she needs to do to live her life as best as she can. She is truly an amazing inspiration.


SO GRATEFUL

She looked a bit wobbly on her feet
as she walked down the front steps.
She had to be totally outside
in order to buzz us in through the front gate.

She was so grateful for her home;
a large Fifth Wheel inside the small mobile park.
She had no possessions on the day she moved in.
Slowly gathering essential belongings
          to help her make it a home.

Her entire life has been a struggle.
She's learned how to be strong.
A mother who never wanted her.
A loving father who died so young.

Those early years, she coped using drugs.
It was the only option she felt she had.
She's been clean now for over thirty years,
but her body has taken the toll.

She has always been so realistic.
Speaking and hearing her truth.
She spoke of appreciation for her friends.
It is them who give her comfort and serenity.

She has no fears; no concerns.
She knows she is soon going to a better place.
"I've always been so upbeat.
          I am now totally at peace."

She truly and clearly is
          so unconditionally grateful.