You never know...

            I was reading the Health section of the Washington Post last week, when I suddenly realized that the lead article concerned a woman I knew!  In spite of knowing her (albeit not well), I had no idea that she had been dealing with some pretty serious health issues over a fairly long period of time. 

There is no need to recount the details of the case.  This story, and many like it, was featured in an on-going series about medical conditions that are initially difficult to diagnose, but ultimately are identified and dealt with.  As always, the story was fascinating; the patient's perseverance was extraordinary; and the health care provider who resolved the issue, exemplary.  Still, given that I knew the party involved, this particular story stayed with me for days.   

I asked a friend who knew this woman much better if she thought it would be okay if I wrote to her about the article.  (The woman in the article had recently left the area & I didn't want to appear intrusive.)  This mutual friend thought it would be fine. I felt compelled to let her know how glad I was that she was doing well and to compliment her on her perseverance.  By all outward appearances, she always seemed to be carrying on with work and the business of life.  There was no hint of how she was wrestling with  issues. 

This evening I sat down and wrote a letter.  This is an excerpt: 

"Upon reading your story I wanted to reach back in time and offer you some encouragement and comfort.  I didn't know what you were dealing with daily.  Unfortunately I can't go back, but now that I know I resolve to pay it forward. From now on I plan to pause before responding sharply to someone; I hope to be a little kinder and not so quickly annoyed when someone doesn't hear me or appears to be distracted.  Your journey made me think about the burdens that others may carry.  I was sincerely moved by your story and impressed that you shared it.  I wish you the best as you pursue a new chapter in your life.  Take care and be well."

         It’s a little thing – writing this letter -- but, it’s something and maybe I’ll be better for it. 

I’m just saying…