Some people see what others cannot. It is a gift, although I find most do not know that her/his vision is different. In conversations, comes thro9ugh. In an old wisdom father’s case, his comment reflected his awareness that he had seen something others had not.
“My companions saw the light, but they didn’t hear the conversation.” (Acts 22.9)
The first person I can recall outside of family that saw me differently was Helen. I vividly remember a casual conversation we were in years ago where she referred to her awareness. She saw something in me she recognized and appreciated. Because she could see, she then put her sight into action.
The way that I knew this was in simple small ways. She spoke to me as an adult. In addition to holding me accountable as one, she went further as listened to my views. I knew the difference. I could feel it. I was honored even as I wondered about her rationale. Over time, I found myself wanting to be father along the path she could see me on.
It was a powerful gift. Even now, in the days since her passing, I find myself going back her to smile and the casual question that went directly to the heart of the subject at hand. I listen to the whispers of the past and I find myself stronger in the present. I hear her voice and realize that Hope is already holding my hand. I am in her presence and find myself confident, reflective, and aspiring to make a difference.
Helens exist in your life and mine. A friend recently reminded me that we make a difference in the lives of those around us. We can pull down or up. In my case, Helen lifted me up. I am sure she had her less glorious moments. I do not recall them. I do know that I better because of her gift. I walk differently because of Helen. I realize that her calling it is a calling worthy of the gods.
Thank you Helen. Thank you God.
