Though somewhat younger, my wife and I attend a church that caters to senior citizens. We like it because of the traditional service and very friendly elderly people. One in particular is a lady in her early eighties, Betty, who cheerfully greets us at the same door every Sunday morning with a smile and kind words. We look forward to seeing her and giving her an occasional hug.
One Sunday when I went to church alone, Betty handed me a small piece of paper and asked me to read it when I had time. On the slip of paper she had written:
"Here are some phrases to think about over an egg enjoyed from an egg cup."
Stay loose -- learn to watch snails. Make little signs that say yes. Make friends with freedom and uncertainty. Cry during movies. Swing as high as you can on a swing by moonlight. Do it for love. Take lots of naps. Give money away. Do it now. The money will follow. Believe in magic. Laugh a lot. Celebrate every gorgeous moment. Read every day. Giggle with children. Listen to those older than you are. Entertain your inner child. Get wet. Hug trees. Write more letters. Eat a soft-boiled egg from an egg cup with a candle on the table. Glory.
One Sunday we got to church and entered without a greeting. During the service, I realized Betty was not at her usual post. After the service, I asked another lady where Betty was. She told me Betty had been hit by a car and flown by helicopter to a hospital. She was small and frail, but miraculously, not a bone was broken. The lady added that Betty was upset because she had always wanted to ride in a helicopter but couldn't remember the experience.
I later discovered Betty had been moved to a rehabilitation center near my office, so I stopped by to visit. I found her sitting alone at a table, horribly bruised on her left side. She smiled when she saw me.
I said, "Betty, do you remember that list you gave me about how to enjoy life?"
She smiled again and said, "Yes, I do."
I said, "Well, I have another thing to add to the list."
She said, "What is it?"
I said, "Look both ways."
She broke out laughing and reached out to give me a hug.