09/13/2022
I was recently sitting with a woman who just turned ninety-three and was nearing the end of her life. She knew she was close. I knew she was close. I have visited with her many times over the last few months, and on this day, I brought her a strawberry tart for her birthday. We drank tea, ate cake, and I visited with her for a few hours. Every time I walked out her door, I whispered, “goodbye,” and “thank you,” as I always assumed that would be my last visit with her. This was the last time I would walk out her door.
During our last visit we were talking about the life changes I have made over the past few months. She was my biggest fan, and very proud of me for working so hard to become healthier. She often scolded me for accepting less than I deserved from those I gave my heart too, and for not taking better care of myself physically. As I was getting ready to go, she said to me, “Gabby, today, will never happen again, you only get one chance to do this day right.”
I received a phone call this morning that she died in her sleep, peacefully and with the beauty and grace that she wore like an expensive perfume. I am sad because it meant I would not be gifted more time with her, but also very thankful for the time we had.
With every person I meet whether personal or professional, I try to see the gifts as well as the lessons. I have learned to accept that people will not be in our lives forever, sometimes because of death, but can also be by choice. Because of the work I do, I am very aware of how fragile life can be… this reminds me to appreciate every moment and every day I am blessed to be with them.
In her honor, I ask that we all remember that we only get this day once… savor it, appreciate it, and make the best of it.
xo
Gabby
