...................................................photo by Elaine A. Russell

Often, I am given to very vivid dreams. As a kid... it was very disturbing. Now it seems to be sort of a running joke with my hubby and myself.

Last night I dreamt about a person from back in PA. ... well known and well loved. He was a physician most all of his life... caring for almost everyone in the County as far as I could tell. A General Physician... now, basically an unheard of occupation in today's world of specializing and compartmentalizing. He was a doctor for so many years... he delivered children and grandchildren ... all in the same families. ... as well as helping so many pass on with comfort and dignity.

Compassionate... as he suffered so many personal losses as well. Knowledgeable... diagnosing so may people long before the aids of technology we have now. Giving... active in his community, church... and so many charitable organizations. A family man, husband --father -- grandfather.

I think of his wife ... also known and loved throughout the community. Now, caring for him; as well as herself in these past few years... plagued by illness. It is a sad thing. And yet, I can't help but marvel at all the good these people have done over the years. How many lives they have changed.... how much grace and love they have shown.

Growing up in a small town definitely had it's positives.... one being... getting to know marvelously good people such as these. Integrity, honesty, compassion, a strong work ethic, giving back to your community, loving and caring for family, living lives of faith and hope... all lessons learned when looking at the lives of people such as this.

Bless you... Dr and Mrs....