With serious illness in the family

As the reality of life’s ‘evening shadows’ are 'on the table', even the real prospect of the inevitable 'setting of the sun' becomes a worthy focus.

Well beyond the sketchy promises/illusions of religion there are much more concrete life values that are well proven not to end with the final heartbeat. Many of the most significant inner values produced in anyone’s life have no 'expiry date' ---

My parents capacity to share inspiration ...for encouragement, assurance, to give confidence and to find trust -- were by far the most valued, real, practical, concrete contribution to my life for many years before their passing, and these beautiful things definitely didn't end with their final heart beat! Their trust in moral decency and courage to stand for truth is a 'life product' that absolutely lives on years after their passing.

These values still shape my person and continue to be a valuable part of mine and many others life resources.

To be honest, for me at least, many of the important aspects of a practical life have already fallen away .. The capacity I once had for significant practical help and support for the people I love most -- my family, and even for my wife has already been taken from me in many ways. As well, the world has become so complex and unpredictable that I can hardly consider any advice I my have or guidance I may come with to be very reliable to anyone any more....(fortunately they are not needed either)

And so for today, my days are motivated by a simpler, quieter intention: to tend to those parts of myself that I hope will endure beyond the nightfall—to deepen what remains when 'doing' gives way to just 'being', and to focus most on what will go on from me when the sun has set.