Vigil into wake

November 6, 2024.

The one takeaway from yesterday's vigil that I am holding very close just now is the love and gratitude for friends: old and new, family: of blood and choice, that unfolded so unexpectedly during the course of the day yesterday. I love you all.

I was alone out there for only one of the hours in the middle of the day. Norman and our overnight guest sleepily got the day rolling. Otherwise, a few neighbors periodically checked in during the day. During the last hour and beyond into the evening, several people who I hadn't seen in decades came by. It was wonderful to see everyone, and I thank you for stopping by.

I share this account of the day not as a personal story but rather because it reminded me of how deep and long our connections run with each other in this life and what a blessing that can be and wanted to pass it on as something we might lean into. It's a light. Maybe very small at the moment but- still a light.

“Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all the darkness.” –Desmond Tutu