There was a song when I was young which lyrics I still remember and would sing whenever it crosses my mind. It was my grade school graduation song. I found the lyrics more philosophical when I read them now than back then- when it is more of just a song and a melody.
Salut! to the perfect Valentine’s weekend with my favorite husband in the world!
Bob and I celebrated Valentines early this time as I was working on the 14th. We decided to spend a quick getaway to St. Petersburg in Florida for the weekend. and once again, this man is able to pull a surprise when he booked a private boat ride to watch a sunset off the coast of Gulf of Mexico. As we enjoy some wine while watching the sun setting, our captain (Mike) said how he enjoys being out in the waters and thankful that every day he is able to experience and appreciate nature. While this statement is not new, the manner he said it, was what caught me- for some reason, it reminded me of the last version of my graduation song:
In the evening of my life, I shall look to the sunset.
At a moment in my life when the night is due.
And the question I shall ask only I can answer.
Was I brave and strong and true?
Did I fill the world with love my whole life through?
Mike’s words somehow made me reflect at that moment on how lucky I was to experience so many things in life all because of love. Perfect timing for the lyrics of the song as we were witnessing a beautiful sun setting. Truly, having a partner like him I can only have so much gratitude. He does fill my life.
a thank you note from my patient’s family.
I would like to believe that Bob and I have transcended the way we celebrate Valentine’s Day beyond flowers and chocolates (though he still buys me some occasionally, like last night). Most recently, we invest more of our time to meaningful experiences. And when I say meaningful experiences, I meant both the things Bob and I enjoy doing together like our adventures and travels, and the things we also do apart yet connect us deeply. Bob is both proponent of love for the animals and the environment so he spends some time volunteering and advocating for their betterment. I 100% support him on this. Meanwhile, I work as a nurse. The last three years may have been mentally, physically and emotionally challenging due to the pandemic, but that doesn’t prevent me from doing what I love most- helping someone heal their pain- emotional and physical. Recently I received a personal thank you note from a family member whose Dad I took care of. This kind of unexpected kudos sometimes is the only thing I need to validate that I did something good for someone. Doing my part in filling our world with love and tenderness.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
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Fill the World with Love by Petula Clark
In the morning of my life I shall look to the sunrise.
At a moment in my life when the world is new.
And the blessing I shall ask is that God will grant me,
To be brave and strong and true,
And to fill the world with love my whole life through.
(Chorus)
And to fill the world with love
And to fill the world with love
And to fill the world with love my whole life through
In the noontime of my life I shall look to the sunshine,
At a moment in my life when the sky is blue.
And the blessing I shall ask shall remain unchanging.
To be brave and strong and true,
And to fill the world with love my whole life through
(Chorus)
In the evening of my life I shall look to the sunset,
At a moment in my life when the night is due.
And the question I shall ask only I can answer.
Was I brave and strong and true?
Did I fill the world with love my whole life through?