Last Monday morning, I put up a post revisiting the tragedy that took place near my home in Tarzana, including the white ribbons of hope that had been placed on every light post.
Later that morning, I went up into the mountains, my spiritual place. As I was walking, deep in thought, I suddenly saw a rainbow, a rarity in Southern California. It was far to the north and somewhat obscured by clouds, but it seemed like a sign.
It filled me with joy and reminded me that although we are dealing with so many problems in the world, in this holiday season we can find notes of hope, healing, love and joy.
ELBEE As long as she doesn’t sing those notes. That would be painful.
Speaking of notes, last week, during a visit with Stanley to a group of patients in an adult neuropsych unit at UCLA, we somehow got on the topic of singing. I am tone deaf and think it’s such a gift when someone can sing.
One young man quietly shared that he could play several instruments, including the piano. Moments later, with a bit of encouragement, he was at the small piano in the room playing Elton John’s Your Song. He finished to enthusiastic applause.
As we were leaving the units, a woman, sitting with some family members in a waiting area near the elevators, came running over to see Stanley. As she dropped to the floor hugging him, laughing and crying, she said he was just what she needed.
The presence of the dogs is so important at this time of year. Holidays can normally be stressful but being ill or having loved ones in the hospital magnifies that stress. Gus, Stanley and Henry are receiving as much love as they’re giving.
On a bright note, it was time for the Doods Christmas photo shoot. This year was even more fun because my dear friend Mary was helping out. There was only one small glitch. Henry has known Mary since he was a puppy but hasn’t seen her in months because she was back East. When she came in through the garage with me, the watchful Pyrenees part of Henry decided she was an intruder. He became very standoffish.
When he suddenly realized who she was, he couldn’t have been sweeter. He was licking her face and leaning on her, almost as if he was apologizing for his memory lapse. I immediately appointed her prop master and wardrobe consultant.
Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas from me and the Doods. Let’s all reach out to each other with kindness. Let’s look for signs of hope in the universe.
