'I WORK HARD"

“Connie”, just recently turned eighty-nine.  She has lived a long life with few medical conditions.  Connie had been living alone on ten acres out in the country.   There were no family members nearby, but many lived about half an hour’s drive away.  Her family was very supportive and loved her dearly.   

Four years ago, she developed lung cancer.  It has now spread to her bones.  She was able to manage well until a few weeks ago.  Her decline has been swift.  As her daughter stated, “It is at a hurricane rate”.  Where Connie had been walking with a walker one month ago, she is now bedridden due to weakness.  Connie is strong and tough.  That is what has kept her going these 89 years.  She likely held on longer than many of us do, which may have resulted in this steep decline. 

Connie was so gentle and kind to the hospice nurse and I.  She so easily accepted what life brought without a fuss.  When talking about some difficult experiences, Connie would easily state, “It is what it is”.  She had strong beliefs about afterlife and denied any fears or concerns about what was happening to her. 

She just smiled so easily and stated appreciation for us being involved.  What a doll.  I hope our paths do cross again.  She is an inspiration. 

“I WORK HARD” 

They gave us written directions

to easily find her country home.

Look for the produce sign;

then the picture of a man on his tractor.

 

A mile or so later, you will be nearby.

There are no street signs or lights,

but notice the red reflectors guiding you

onto the half mile dirt road to our home.

 

She’s lived to be almost ninety,

even though her life has been rough.

But through it all, she always remains calm;

somehow naturally accepting what is.

 

Surprisingly, no matter what, she’s embraced her life.

Four of her seven children have died before her.

She became widowed nine years ago,

but still her beautiful smile welcomed us in.

 

Life is never that complicated to her at all.

When asked what’s her secret in living this long

while experiencing so many family’ losses,

she will answer so convincingly, so deeply

by calmly saying so simply, “I work hard.

               I have always just worked hard”.