Stuck In The Middle With You

As you know Bubbie has been somewhat stuck in the Midwest, namely Indiana, for going on 3 ½ weeks. It’s the longest that he has been separated from Sweet Pea and his home. He told me that it has forever changed him, but for the better because it has aided in his realization of the priorities of, and in his life. At first one misses everyone and everything equally. It is grief. Then time begins to peel away the layers and the material belongings fall away; likewise with social and demographic scenery; the familiarity of culture, architecture, plants, driving familiar routes on familiar roads. One still misses them, just on a lesser level than one’s loved ones.

The longing for loved ones and friends, familiar faces and common conversations become more prominent. As much as one has studied faces; shared funny smiles, laughter and tears, time clouds those memories and the subtle nuances fade without strained focus. Thoughts of our people are pictures in our mind, missing the glossy sparkle in one’s eyes, the curl in their lips and the blushed glow in their emotive cheeks. How precious the smallest items that are so easily taken for granted.

Beyond the memories is missing a touch, a hug, holding one’s hand. How nice it would be to have a loved one walk up and put a hand on his shoulder and touch Bubbie’s arm while conversing on any menial topic; to sit side by side with arms lightly tangential.

Yes, being alone lends itself to living for one’s self. In an unfamiliar environment, knowing no one, it is more difficult to serve others. Tremendous value is gain from the smallest acts of kindness. What Bubbie have lost in physical affection has been lessened in severity by looking to serve others; since all are strangers one can offer little more than smiles and polite courtesy. But the smallest things can add up quickly and warm the heart. The good news, in Bubbie’s view, is one doesn’t have to leave all behind to reap the same benefits; forget the petty annoyances of the one’s you love—smile, touch, and serve.