A friend was describing a recent trip. The airlines have been experiencing a boatload of cancellations, and he was aware that things could change at the last minute. A text arrived, saying that the flight was delayed, so they did not get up early as originally planned. But in the morning, after calling the 800 number, the recording claimed the flight was on time. In a panic they scooted to the airport, asking an agent for information. Reassured that they had plenty of time, they went looking for breakfast. Then they checked the overhead arrival/departure boards which claimed that the original time was accurate. They went back and forth trying to be at the right place at the right time, but the push and pull between hurry up and wait was wearing. Finally they were safely in their seats, and could exhale. They were on their way. 

 

Another friend described a birth she attended last summer. The uncertainty was compounded both by being a week past the due date, and the slow progression. Yet the attending midwives were calm. Keeping a close eye on the baby's heartbeat, they were patient with the long labor. It was difficult to trust in the absence of clear signs telling when the baby would arrive. After many hours, the beautiful newborn emerged, and with wide eyes drank in this new world. The baby seemed unaware of any anxiety, and her peacefulness made worry obsolete. 

 

Yet another friend is caring for her elderly parent. Half a dozen times in the last year she has declared that this is the end, her father won't live through the night. Doctors and nurses have concurred, then changed their predictions when the old man rallied. The ping ponging expectations have frazzled her nerves, and yet she believes, once again, that the end is imminent. I wonder if this time next month, as her family reminisces about the blessings of a life well lived,  all the confusion of his exit will be moot. 

 

It behooves us to hustle to catch a plane, and listen closely to a woman in labor. It is right to focus our attention on a loved one transitioning to the next life. But we can loosen our grip a mite on the worry. Maybe Someone will get us where we need to be.