About 12 years ago, I was walking in Old Town Pasadena with Dan.  He turned a corner or poked his head into a shop and so I was alone for a few moments.  A woman with a baby stroller (and an adorable toddler in the stroller) walked up to me with a bemused expression on her face.

"I'm sorry to bother you," she said.  I think she took my arm and went on to say, "You have the most amazing aura surrounding you.  I would love to do a reading for you."

I thanked her but told her I'm not really big into "that sort of thing."

She looked a bit surprised (I guess people with amazing auras should be open to aura readings), and quickly assured me that she didn't want to charge me...she just wanted to do the reading.  She also said something that's a bit fuzzy in my memory, but it had to do with "good news."

I shook my head and said no thanks, going on my way as Dan joined up with me.  I don't think the woman was happy with my decision but I've often wondered what it is she saw and what it is she would have "read" from the spiritual emanation she perceived.  I remain fairly skeptical about such things although I'm less dogmatic about my religious beliefs than I was back then.

For some reason, that memory has come back to me since the diagnosis.  I suppose it could be grasping at straws, but it feels more like an affirmation of the peace I've been occasionally suffused with as we (Dan and I) wander this ill-marked path into the unknown.

Difficulties will abound, I am sure.  Frustrations, moments of hopelessness and tears aplenty.  But I am also sure that good things are coming in at least equal measure. 

It occurs to me that what the woman saw had very little to do with me and very much to do with the love and support, the humor and deep, abiding affection I enjoy from my friends and my family.  Surrounding me.  Infusing me with strength for the journey.

I don't need a reading to tell me about that.  It's here, right now.

Thank you.

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