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The Diplomat

     Hey, everyone. The other day, something triggered a memory of a really odd happening in my life. Many years ago, I was working at a plant that was situated in a rural, residential area. One house was very close, just on the other side of a fence, and an elderly couple lived there.
    This couple was in their eighties and were very feeble. They barely managed to get around and their relatives lived in another state. They were independent and just desired to live alone as long as possible.
     Unfortunately, sometimes the man's wife would fall and of course the elderly gentleman was unable to pick her up. He'd call the plant and whoever was on duty would go over and carry her to bed, to the couch, or wherever she wanted to go.
    They had been in the diplomatic corps for many, many years. They were the sweetest, most gracious people I've ever been around. Even now I can see her in my mind's eye; I can see her smiling face when I'd kneel to pick her up. She was as light as a feather, it seemed. Laughing a little at her own feebleness, always so kind and happy, the two of them still very much in love after 60 years of marriage.
     These folks had dedicated their entire lives to peace, seeking it in many foreign lands. And my goodness, how the aura of peace lay like a mantle on that home!
     They eventually did have to move to an assisted living facility and both died, years ago. Even now, when I think of them, it brings a smile to my face... and perhaps a tear, too.
     I am socially inept. I wish that I could have assimilated some of their gift and brought it home, to the author's green retreat.
    I'm CE Wills.

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