AN OPPORTUNITY FOR REFLECTION
Perhaps the eclipse on Monday was an opportunity for you, as it was for me, to stop and reflect — although it also reminds us that we are moving!
My personal circumstances were such that I witnessed the 2017 solar eclipse, as well. On both occasions, I was fortunate to spend part of my day speaking with and interviewing residents living in long-term care. I will, God willing, be in a similar part of my lifespan to those residents whom I encountered during the next eclipse anticipated here in 2079.
Both in 2017 and 2024, I encountered memories from more than 55 years ago, but this opportunity is not unique to there being an eclipse. Both days there were laughs and cries, but that is again not unique to there being an eclipse. Both days I punched a hole in a cereal box … OK, this is an eclipse-specific behaviour!
Every day, we learn so much from our memories and from the memories of others, and we should not underestimate the contribution of a listening ear to the benefit of those who have so much wisdom to share. Additionally, we cannot take for granted that the memories will always be available to be shared.
Perhaps this can serve as a reminder to be grateful for each day we have and for the people we encounter. When we can, we should go out of our way to listen to the valuable memories that others have to share with us — perhaps with particular care and attention to those who are older than us.
The richness of our lives depends not only on our experiences, for the moments are fleeting, but also on how we understand every day. Indeed, I have been reminded each of these days interviewing residents that, as is the case of an eclipse, we can only fully experience our living in the present, but we can only hope to fully understand our lives as they near completion. So as we went out to see the eclipse, maybe we can go out and listen to one another: No special glasses required.