Life is Now!

It's not that "today is the first day of the rest of my life," but that now is all there is of my life.
                                                                                                                                                     ~Hugh Prather
This quote appeared on my blogsite today.   I thought, how ironic!  Yesterday, I learned that two lives were taken from this world... a mom and her 12-year old daughter.  They were on their way to celebrate their parents/grandparents 50th wedding anniversary.  Also, yesterday, I had a call from a book group friend that one of our members is living out her final days.  As Hugh Prather states so accurately...  Life indeed is NOW!
The lady from our book group retired from the nursing profession a couple of years ago.  Her retirement has been filled with traveling and friends!  Along with her best friend, she has been a loyal attender and reader.  Her mere presence in our group added a  positive energy, a certain life attitude that was so refreshing and youthful.   At this time, she is home with family, close friends, and Hospice.  I am truly going to miss my friend and mentor.  I will always remember her lovely smile and jovial laughter forever!  Life indeed is NOW!
I did not know the mom and daughter who was killed in a car accident Saturday afternoon.  I did know the precious grandparents.  The wife was blinded several years ago due to a stroke.  Her war-decorated husband selects his wife's clothing, earrings, etc on a daily basis.  She depends so much on him, and he on her!  Together they are the epitome of the strength of Job!  It is my prayer that God will sustain them and the other family members through this tragic event in their lives.  Sunday, they were going to have a church pew reserved for the entire family to celebrate 50 wonderful years together.  Instead, Sunday found them planning two funerals for a daughter and granddaughter instead.  Life is NOW!
Don't hesitate to really look into the eyes of that special person sitting across the table from you.  Don't let a day go by that you tell someone how important they are in your life.  Don't let a morning go by that you don't give that special loved one a loving hug!  Don't let a night go by that you thank God for the blessings of this life.  Don't let a phone call end with a simple good-bye... add a simple "Love you!"  Every day is precious.  The people in our life are God's gifts... cherish them!  
Life is NOW!