SIX DEGREES OF SEPARATION

I met, “Eva”, three days ago when we admitted her daughter, “Brenda”,  to our hospice program. When I walked into the family room, Eva introduced herself as the patient’s mother.  She was so realistic regarding her daughter’s poor prognosis.  Eva then shared her terrific support of family, friends and her church community. 

In addition, her family is rallying and all helping with caring for, “Brenda”.   I went back to the home today as the family needed some supplies.  Eva was out on her porch and we spoke there.  She is about fifteen years older than I am, but we so easily connected.  She spoke again about her pain and grief, but then turned the subject to her childhood and younger years.  She spoke of having such a happy life, but then what amazed both of us were the coincidences that arose.  

I wish Eva and her family the best.  They all support Brenda as well as each other.  It won’t be easy, but the support they all give and receive from each other is the best medicine of all.

SIX DEGREES OF SEPARATION 

 

She is a generation older than I am,

but our connection happened so quickly.

The moment I walked into her home the other day,

she totally embraced me with her heart.

 

Her daughter is suffering from cancer.

She has been ill for over five years.

She spoke of the pain of losing a child,

but I know that her family, her friends, her faith

                   will help her pull through

.

We met again today; on her front porch.

I was bringing some needed supplies.

She shared her pain; her grief; her sadness;

then spoke about some lighter times;

                   her childhood; her younger years.

 

She grew up in Redwood City,

but then, so did I.

We attended the same high school,

although I was a generation behind.

 

She then moved to San Jose;

coincidently as did I.

Her husband attended San Jose State.

                    Years later, so did I.

 

We were surprised our paths hadn’t crossed sooner,

as six degrees of separation seems so strong.

But then, they are extended family of my co-worker;

which helped us reserve part of the degrees

as we didn’t require all of the six,

but happily, needed

                    only just four.