She sat in her chair, with a blank stare on her face. Both confused and bewildered. She looked at the man in front of her, not quite recognizing his face, but yet, in her heart some form of familiarity. He stared back recognizing her face, but not quite recognizing who she had become. But he remembered who she used to be. Although she changed as her mind faded, his love did not change. He would remember the woman she was and hang tightly to that memory. Yet, still choosing to love who she became. Dementia stole her mind, but it couldn’t steal the love. Every day he visited her, lovingly in the home where she was placed. For even though his wife changed from the disease, her mere presence was all he asked for. One day she passed away. For years after he counted down the days, until he could join her. For when he would open his eyes, he would be with her again. Her mind healed and he could have his wife back. He has now since passed and I know he’s right where he longed to be, beside his wife of many years. Life may change parts of us, but real love remains unchanged, even as life changes. He still showed up for her, his love remaining unchanged, even when it was hard. For love does show up, always. Real love holds tight, even through the tides of change. Friend, sometimes life can be difficult. Sometimes we can be difficult. Although like this man, God still shows up for us. He still hangs tight to us. Just wanting to spend time with us. When the world looks different or as it changes, may we remember that God is still beside us, loving us. Even when we don’t always recognize Him. He is in the friendly smile of a stranger, a kind word, a helping hand, a loving friend. He journeys alongside us. May we remember this, always. May we also love each other, with this same sort of love. May we love like Him. May we love God, and in doing so best learn how to love. The tides of life may change, but memories they stay the same. Etched into the hearts of those in which lived them. May we leave love in its path.

Erin Fitts-Brower

Proverbs 17:17 NIV

A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.

John 15:12 NIV

My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.