[Ohio-Talk] Thinking and Thanking Out Loud

[Smith, JW]

Dear Fellow Human Being,

I don't know about you, but the horrific helicopter accident on Sunday has caused me to be very reflective and more grateful this week. I debated whether or not to send this message, because I don't want to increase anyone's sadness about that situation, nor do I want to appear like I'm dumping on you. However, the older I get, the more healthy it is for me to express my feelings and to share them with others. This week has caused me to love my loved ones even stronger and to express this to them more frequently and fervently. It has caused me also to wonder how I want to be remembered in terms of a legacy and human imprint. It has also caused me to walk and talk a little slower and to not just smell the roses, but to pick a few as well. In fact, I am sure that some song will come out of this time in my life. I found a poem by Mary Elizabeth Frye that I believe captures at least some of my feelings about this horrific event and its aftermath. I want to share it with you here  and remind each of you to do all that you can to convey goodness, care, love, and appreciation to as many human beings as is possible while you still can.

Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.

--Mary Elizabeth Frye

jw