How do you measure, measure a year?
I saw a most-satisfying, amazing, blessed production of Rent on the local community theater stage last weekend. The talent and emotion that poured across that stage was palpable, and I traveled back in time to see people and situations that I had not recalled for 25 years. Truly moving. Several of those friends are no longer with us, and most of them died from the complications of HIV/AIDS that were transmitted through a blood supply that we were blissfully unaware of as a disease vector. I am saddest to recall the endtimes of my Best Man, Patrick Delahanty Clarke, whose energy and dreams were so quickly lost to us.
A year ago, I was pondering the somewhat-bleak future of our economy, especially in state government. I was happily riding my brains out in preparation for several long bike rides, including the 2010 LiveStrong Challenge in Seattle and the Peach of a Century in Salem. I am proud to say that I completely whooped my 100-mile Livestrong ride time of 2009, finishing 90 minutes faster than I had previously done.I rode my first Chilly Hilly in 20 years, rode in the heat of Phoenix with dear friends, improved my time on the Reach the Beach challenge, and once again managed to smash my head (and other body parts) against the pavement without incurring permanent damage - WEAR YOUR HELMET!
We finished a major home remodel, and no one felt compelled to obtain separated living arrangements. We hosted parties for July 4th and for New Years. Darling daughter swam her way impressively through several meets, culminating in Bend, and successfully transitioned to Middle School and adolescence. I actually performed on stage - singing, dancing, acting - for the first time in my life, and enjoyed every minute of it. I loved that time with new-found friends, and was honored that old friends traveled from near and far to watch the production. You are all such a solid part of who I am. Thank you. Really, I could not mean that any more sincerely.
Next week we find out what effect the chemo and Erbitux have had on my two tumors. If the facial disaster is any indication, those chemicals are having the desired effect (shrinkage). I will let everyone know once we know something firm, and the road is yet long. Thanks for keeping me and our family in your thoughts and prayers.
"525,600 minutes... how do you measure, measure a year?
In daylights, in sunsets, in midnights, in cups of coffee.
In inches, in miles, in laughter, in strife.
In 525,600 minutes - how do you measure a year in the life?
How about love? How about love? How about love?
Measure in love. Seasons of love."
Lyrics from "Seasons of Love", Rent, 1994
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6 comments:
Well that took me back. I miss Patrick, too. Great post this week, Ed.
Ed - your geographer friends, colleagues, and fellow alums are rooting for good news!
Dave
Will I lose my dignity, will someone care
When I wake tomorrow from this nightmare?
From my perspective, your year measured out in a joyous embrace of life--its challenges, its setbacks and its sweet victories.
As is your new "friend" and follower of your blog, who is inspired by your strength and writing ability to make me think, truly think about all we have to be thankful for. =) I am praying for you and your family, with the heart of a mother who's son is now a 14 year survivor. Live Strong ED! Very sincerely, Tammy
Eddie- I keep trying to comment and it won't let me! trying again. KSJ
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