Moments That Matter: A Connection Beyond Words
Recently, I had the privilege of sharing lunch with a friend, someone whom I had been quietly following on social media—Instagram and Facebook—drawn to their journey from a distance. This friend has been living with cancer for the past five years, and in just a short while, they will mark the fifth anniversary of their diagnosis. Our conversation naturally shifted into a deep, reflective discussion on life itself.
They opened up about their early experiences with the disease—how, in the beginning, they found themselves consumed by anger, regretting the past, and feeling disappointed for not having done more. The weight of uncertainty also weighed heavily on them, as they often found themselves anxious about the future and what it held.
However, as the years passed, they discovered a profound shift in perspective. They had learned to embrace the present moment, fully appreciating the simple pleasures that many of us often overlook. A morning sunrise, the colors of a sunset, a brisk hike, the refreshing scent of nature, the gentle breeze, the sound of birds singing, the wind on their face, the early signs of spring’s growth—all of these things had taken on new meaning. They began to value the impact of meaningful conversations, recognizing that true connection lies in the moments we share with others.
As we spoke, I could sense their presence—an energy, an aura, a vibration that surrounded them. It was filled with love, a frequency that resonated deeply within me. I could feel my own attitude shifting, a sense of being uplifted, my own zest for life reignited. At one point, they reached across the table, asking if they could hold my hand. The simple yet powerful gesture of connection was incredibly moving. I can't recall the last time an adult had asked to hold my hand and share in a moment of pure presence. To feel the warmth of their hand in mine, to truly be with each other, to be seen and heard in that space—it was profound. To listen to their story and share mine, it was something rare and special.
I left that lunch feeling incredibly grateful for the time we spent together. Our conversation was a validation of so much—our smiles and laughter as we reminisced, the bond we share through the values of giving, of presence, and of friendship. We talked about the moments that truly matter, the importance of regulating our emotions, and the practices that help us navigate life with meaning. We discussed how we give back whenever we can, how we focus on the present and embrace what is, and the lessons we’ve learned along the way with a shared desire to continue learning. And, most importantly, we reflected on the beauty that surrounds us if we only take the time to truly open our eyes.
How incredibly fortunate I am to have a friend like this. If I achieve nothing else in my life, I hope to continue making meaningful connections with others who share this commitment to intentional living—those who show up for others, who give more than they take, and who truly understand the value of presence and connection.
