Previous Challenge Entry (Level 1 – Beginner)
Topic: Love (04/27/06)
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TITLE: And the Greatet of these | Previous Challenge Entry
By ROBLYN R SCHWARTZ
05/03/06 -
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The Hurst family had assembled for a reunion. Grandparents, mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, and cousins traveled from inside Mississippi and the surrounding states to attend. Excitement filled the air.
Uncle Mac and Aunt Katherine who lived near Jackson had taken me under their wings since the death of my parents. Even at age forty, I needed and enjoyed their attention, interest and love. I noticed both of then looked great as I hugged their necks. Aunt Katherine, dressed in pale blue slacks with a blue and white seersucker blouse, joined the ladies. Uncle Mac and I walked outside to visit.
“Melody,” Mac stated, “Your Aunt Katherine is slipping.” My confusion was obvious. He continued, “Katherine is not as alert as she used to be. She’s simply slowing down.” I heard Mac’s words, but couldn’t comprehend them. After our conversation, we joined the others inside.
Now ten years later, I understand Uncle Mac’s comments. Aunt Katherine has been diagnosed with dementia. It’s hard for me to say the word dementia. I wish with all my heart dementia didn’t exist. I must accept the unacceptable.
The job descriptions in the Hamilton household have changed. Uncle Mac now manages every aspect. He grocery shops and cooks the meals. On weekends Mac and Katherine drive to nearby towns for lunch. The change of scenery stimulates them both. On Sunday they attend Sunday school. The Hamilton’s two daughters visit as often as possible from their homes in Alabama and Missouri. Katherine rarely initiates conservation. When I visit, she seems content just having me there. Her niece does most of the talking. One thing continues to amaze me concerning my aunt. Katherine has Mac drive her to the library each week. She checks out books and takes them home. Then she sits in her recliner and turns the pages of the books. I think Katherine is imitating her former lifestyle as an elementary teacher.
In all of his role changes Mac has remained as solid as a rock. His faith is renewed daily through Bible study and prayer. He good naturedly teases his bride of fifty years to elicit responses from her. Katherine smiles and laughs out loud.
Her husband is now the caregiver. I watch in admiration as Uncle Mac lovingly meets Katherine’s needs. He bathes his wife before bedtime. His life revolves around hers.
This husband and wife relationship depicts real love. Mac and Katherine continue to support each other in every way possible. One day they will rejoice as they look down from Heaven on the Hurst family reunion. Children will be swimming and the adults will be conversing. And the greatest of these is love.
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