This weekend I received news of a tragedy.  Not in my own family, but affecting someone I know, and I have been feeling pain for them.

It is interesting how struggle and loss affect us as we move through life.  As we gain years and wisdom, it seems we are more expectant of loss.  It becomes more of a reality as our family and friends grow older.  It certainly does not make it any easier to endure.

There are some around us who are experiencing loss every day through their own battle. 

Today I want to celebrate the fighters.

I am not talking about the Olympic athletes who did not win a medal.  I am talking about the people I have met throughout my life who fight addiction, illness, pain, post-traumatic stress, and the list goes on.  I am talking about those who do what they have to do every day… even when it sucks. 

For me, I gain some sort of comfort when I am aware of the battle another is waging and can somehow join the fight.  Perhaps that is the nurse/caregiver in me.  I want to lend support; offer a helping hand, or just a listening ear.  Sometimes all I can be is a distraction, hopeful that it brings joy.

Or even a good belly laugh.

I know, and have known, some amazing fighters.   You know them too.

I am so thankful for those people in this world.  From the fighters, I learn how to fight... even though my battle sometimes seems more like a catfight in perspective.  It gives me hope that when and if my time comes, I too will fight.

I am praying for the family suffering through their tragedy, as there is comfort in my spiritual belief that it will bring them peace.  I pray they will be fighters.

I am praying for all of the fighters in my world.  You know who you are.

I love you.