Full of Grace

Back when I was in therapy for PTSD, my therapist suggested that I start a gratitude practice.  I would often post Full of Grace posts here, trying to include at least 5 things I was particularly grateful for.  It is a practice I still continue, although more privately these days.  But today I want to write about over 50+ things I am grateful for.

Last week I attended the funeral for my son-in-law’s uncle.  He had been a heart transplant recipient 20 years ago and spent all of those years encouraging and supporting other transplant patients.  I only met him a few times, but each meeting was like an encounter with joy.  He was a grateful, compassionate soul.

At the funeral home, next to the casket, there was a large display dedicated to the young man who had been his heart donor, along with information about becoming a donor.  I sat next to a woman who then told me she was the donor’s mother.  She had flown in from Michigan to attend the funeral, as she continues relationships with every recipient of her son’s organs.  Personally, I can’t imagine experiencing the death of a child, over and over but she seemed to have more pride than sorrow.  She also told me that between his organs and his tissues, he had given over 50 people the gift of life.  

Over 50 people given the opportunity to live longer or better lives, to love and share with their friends and families.  

Amazing. 

Today I am so very grateful for organ donors who give the gift of life, recipients who share their gift to help others, and particularly mothers who embrace and endure this bittersweet miracle.