Arvo Part is a contemporary Estonian composer who has a way of weaving sacred text into eight-part harmony that leaves me without doubt that there is a higher being. I swear, my heart literally heaves at the word Rejoice at 5:22.
Saturday night, I had dinner with Ahmad, Steffi, and their smart little girl. We were sharing some of the struggles we’ve had over the last couple years, and Steffi asked me if I was religious. I am not. I do, however, find a great deal of magnificence in the faith of a number of good friends.
My best friend from middle school has a beautiful, deep spirituality. Her father passed away quite suddenly on Friday morning. On her blog, she posted a simple, perfect verse: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” (Matthew 5:4)
I was struck by those words when I first sang Part’s The Beatitudes, just as I am almost overwhelmed (in a great way) by them now. A number of the patients I had the opportunity to know briefly in the last two weeks are likely to die in the next couple months. I think about how much I love the hospital, it’s so easy to not always consider how absolutely un-comforting (to say the least) it is to so many. I don’t know of a way to end this post without a weak platitude so, banally but sincerely, I hope their last days and those following include peace and comfort for them and their loved ones. And, of course, for my dear friend, my heart is with you.
anna in med school 