I was at the dentist a few months ago and because of Covid procedures the patients are only allowed to have an escort with them for certain reasons.
I was waiting in the dental chair in one room and saw another couple coming in and going to another room. They were senior citizens and the woman was accompanied by her partner to be wheeled in and seemed to have other mental issues as well. The man looked tired, angry and overwhelmed as I am sure just getting from the car to the office was challenging. She looked scared and afraid and suddenly I could hear her screaming "Your hurting me!" As she was being lifted into the dental chair. Her partner started shouting back "No we aren't!" This went on for a few minutes and the staff tried to help her calm down and the man stood nearby. He seemed almost relieved to have the help.
Just about then a staff person came into my room and apologized for the loud noises. I told them that there was no need for that though. I only hope someone has as much patience with me when I am old and yelling. Fact is I have sat in many a room listening to similar kinds of situations and like to use the time to think about the things I don't know about them. (ER rooms are amazing places to be in and listen to different experiences). I wonder about the back story; how did they meet? Do they still love each other? Do they still feel young? Do they have other family?
For me there is no better test of what love is than listening to this senior couple. I bet they are both tired and wish things were going to improve but the fact is... it isn't. They know this but each day they get up and keep moving on. I bet they felt that time moved fast and it was just yesterday when they first met.
Time has a funny way of doing that; It can move fast and slow at the same time. Moments like this though remind me to appreciate the little joys in my life.
Valentines day is coming up and for me it is more than a day of romance or the way the sales people want us to treat it. For me it is a day to be reminded that time does go by fast; so make sure you have shared and expressed your love for all those in your life. We suffer the most when we have regrets so make sure you cherish each day.
Let us be kind, stay safe and keep moving forward!
Jai!
---Paige