Bill Hermanson
As I sit by the fireplace in my sister and brother-in-law’s living room in Southern California, I am drawn to the warmth and light of the fire. My beloved brother-in-law, Bill, has had a stroke. After over a month in the hospital, he is now home. Will he recapture enough vitality of body and mind to want to continue to live? What is life? What gives it meaning?
Over the years I would answer: life is about growing, learning, pursuing our dreams; creating family, community, good works; communing with nature, mother earth and the cosmos; and appreciating the cycle of nature and life.
Indeed, life is about all of this. But at my current age it is simply and profoundly about love. I love Bill. I have known him since I was 11. He and my sister, Elena, have been married over 52 years. Bill is a fine man who loves his wife, son Eric and daughter Laura with all his heart. Being present and providing for them have always been his priorities.
What is important now?
Being present with a loving heart; supporting him on this leg of his journey; and respecting his dignity and choices. I now pray and believe that his strong spirit will lead to the recovery of his mobility, strength and vitality so that living has meaning, and we may continue to share our family’s rich history together.
What’s important? LOVE.
Blessings Bill from John, Elizabeth, Natalia and me. Blessings to Elena, Eric and Laura.
Eric, Laura, Elena and Bill
John, Susan and Bill
Bill and John
Family at Thanksgiving
I’m beginning to understand there is an infinite amount of love available. Opening the heart can be painful, but oh, so wonderful.
May my heart expand with love and compassion for all beings.
Susan, you are so right…at this stage of our lives, love, compassion and respect are the only things that are important. 🙏❤️ Sending love and wishes for a full recovery for your brother. I am a stroke victim from 2005 and where there’s a will, there is a way
Holding all of you in gentle prayer, Susan. Love is, indeed, the heart energy of the cosmos, expressed in infinite ways. Some bittersweet, some reassuring, some joyful, always meaningful and for our higher good.
Ah so right. Recently have gone through some trials, and have been actually, grateful for them. Because they provided me with the opportunity to experience such an abundance of love from my family and friends.