My Favorite Weed

For those of you that have not read my first story about weeds, here is a summary:

Weeds are not deterred by any so called “weed barrier” or any concrete or any asphalt.  They are pushy.  They are persistent.  They are determined to endure.  They are resilient and will survive any challenges, adapting to the circumstances they encounter.  They are going to live as they are destined to live and they do not let obstacles stop them.  Like a weed, there are people in this world who find a way to be just as strong and just as resilient!

I think that most of us (at least those of us with gray hair!) have known a person or persons who have the qualities I described in my Weed Story.  You know the ones, the people who seem to be able to overcome any challenges, who endure difficulties with determination, and break through their barriers to continue with life on their terms.  Here is my tribute to one such person.

Ray is the husband of one of my dearest friends whom I have known over 50 years.  I guess it would be fair to say that Ray is my friend too.  Ray has faced many barriers, many challenges, and many obstacles in his life.  He has had many health concerns, including heart bypass surgery and more than one bout with cancer.  If anyone is entitled to complain and whine about how life has done him wrong, it is Ray. 

However, I have never heard him complain, never seen him when he was negative or angry at the world for what he has been through.  I know there had to be times when he was down, maybe afraid, maybe angry, and at times maybe wanting to give up.  Like the weeds described above Ray has pushed through his barriers.  He has risen through the concrete of his illnesses, not only to survive but to also thrive.  Even after his many challenges he is the same ornery, sarcastic, funny and caring person he has always been.  Nothing has slowed him down.  He is an active participant in his children’s, grandchildren’s, and great-grandchildren’s lives. He is the first one to offer help when he sees someone in need.  He has pushed his way through the life barriers he was given and come out the other side a great example of the resiliency of the human spirit.  He is living life as he always has, on his terms and with the fortitude of a weed.

I am lucky to know him and I think all his family and friends would say the same.

©bcreed