Tribute to a kind and courageous heart

For as long as I could remember,as the years slowly sped by,I had only heard her name spoken with genuine,unspotted,unfeigned respect.Though we actually talked very little,from time to time I would see her,here and there,in the community,taking care of whatever the business of the day was.She had came up in a time when the living was not easy.To know the full extent of the horrors life had thrown her way would surely make one weep.And yet,at these times when I would have the opportunity to nod,speak,wave,or just exchange a glance,I was always amazed and comforted greatly by what I  saw in her face.Her smile and the sparkle in her eye showed no sign that she had experienced a more than fair share of sorrow.Looking back now I am even more amazed.I now know,more than then,that what I had saw in her was a reflection of a kind and courageous heart.I saw her again today.This time I was able to extend a hand and offer a warm hug.Tomorrow they would be burying her youngest child.We glanced toward him,in unison,lying in silent state,and when our eyes met,I was amazed to see what I had saw every other time down through the years.No pity,no anger,no frustration.Only kindness and courage.She was eighty five now;but she held on to my hand for a few seconds,and I felt as if I was the one being comforted,and was.I left feeling very humbled,and will never forget that frail hand squeezing mine,and was thankful for the blessing that came with it.The blessing of a kind and courageous heart.