Last night, I was grumbling about the frigid state of my flat (which has since been fixed) when I had to stop myself. A year ago today, it seemed unlikely I would see the next morning, let alone the next year. But I am here. I am so very alive. I am singing. I am in love. I know how very blessed I am to be alive.
I am so deeply grateful for the family who decided that their loss would mean life for me and others in situations all too similar to my own. The presence of mind and generosity of spirit to think of others while walking with those you love through their valley and shadow of death is the definition of charity. It speaks to a deep understanding of the nature of life, love and renewal and a kindness that pushes me forward each day.
So on this special anniversary, I share this video with you. I gave this talk late last year. It's a different story than I usually tell, but I hope the idea is one you'll pass along. Thank you all for your love, for your support and kindness during this journey. I hope it continues on for many, many years and decades to come. But regardless of its duration, I am so very fortunate to have people like you who have supported me through it.
I am so deeply grateful for the family who decided that their loss would mean life for me and others in situations all too similar to my own. The presence of mind and generosity of spirit to think of others while walking with those you love through their valley and shadow of death is the definition of charity. It speaks to a deep understanding of the nature of life, love and renewal and a kindness that pushes me forward each day.
So on this special anniversary, I share this video with you. I gave this talk late last year. It's a different story than I usually tell, but I hope the idea is one you'll pass along. Thank you all for your love, for your support and kindness during this journey. I hope it continues on for many, many years and decades to come. But regardless of its duration, I am so very fortunate to have people like you who have supported me through it.
Lots of love,
Truly lovely and moving. Thanks for sharing your story!
ReplyDeleteLove Love Love you!
ReplyDeleteHurrah!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful, Charity. Beautiful Charity. ;-) Brava.
ReplyDeleteKnowing that you are healthy, strong, and singing again brings incredible joy to my heart. The "general" is once again leading the troops. Love you much, Marylyn
ReplyDeleteWe're really glad you made it and thanks for sharing the talk. It changed me for good.
ReplyDeleteThank you for being an indefinably bounteous gift.
ReplyDeleteEvery time I hear you sing I can feel it in my lungs!! I have journeyed your transplant battle and too have been blessed with the gift of life, a double lung transplant, for 17 years now...I sang solos at school and church in childhood but did not continue as I grew older except occasionally. Many remarked how well I sing. Now my diaphragm is too weak.
ReplyDeleteI admire your determination to keep your voice alive and I look forward to one day meeting you...God Bless you for using your gifts to bring Organ Donation Awareness a fresh new meaning....((hugs))
I hope to meet you too!!
DeleteAn amazingly beautiful story and message, and a voice that sounds better than ever!! Love love love to you, Charity Sunshine!!!!
ReplyDeletePam Stein, I <3 you something fierce;)
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