Gaining Perspective

Kathy Hendricks

When my husband, Ron, and I planned a European river cruise to celebrate our anniversary, I never envisioned an ending in which we would be separated by an entire ocean. We knew the risks of Covid but assurances of sanitized conditions on the ship and our own commitment to masking in crowded places led to a false sense of security. When the time came to ready ourselves for our return flight I tested positive. What I thought was a mild cold a few days earlier turned out to be something more serious. Not wanting to risk further delays we reluctantly parted ways - Ron back to the States and me to Winchester, UK, where, with testing mandates lifted, I could wait for my clearance to fly with an old and dear friend.

My own personal situation is being played out as millions flee their homes in Ukraine. They join countless others from places like Afghanistan and Syria who have no options that will include a return home nor a safe refuge with a generous friend.

Yesterday I saw a notice in the city center that warned of upcoming street closures due to the Palm Sunday procession. Having spent half of Lent on the road it was startling to realize that Easter is two weeks away. Trees are leafing out here and daffodils appear in huge clumps along roadways and in parks. While I am eager to be home again, nature seems to be urging me to take stock and embrace the grace of now. To put things in perspective and recognize the massive difference between an inconvenience and true suffering. To be thankful for each small gift that is offered each day.

Response by Barbara Radtke

Kathy, wishing you a quick recovery and safe travels home. Thank you for sharing the perspective you gained when you placed your circumstances in the context of today's global struggles. We cannot hear enough your reminder about the "grace of now."

I write this in the hope that the Ukrainian people and all those caught in geopolitical conflicts will be delivered from the suffering and pain they have and are enduring. I am mindful of those who extend a helping hand -- be it your friend in Winchester or the many people who have extended hospitality and support to those who have fled from or are trapped in strife-torn homelands.