20 Comments

I love when people highlight those around us who make the world a brighter place. I think when we focus too much on the negative we become negative. So thank you for sharing Matthew with us.

Expand full comment
author

Some people just have that gift, and it's not toxic positivity...they just really embody being alive. Just had to share Matthew with you all. Thanks for reading!

Expand full comment
Mar 8Liked by Alexa Wilding

My son went to rehab after brain cancer surgery, and he spoke often about a night nurse who would stay and talk with him in the wee hours when he couldn't sleep. They didn't talk about his cancer or treatment; they talked mostly about food. My son was hungry all the time because of steroids for brain swelling, and this man would describe all of the delicious barbecue he made when he wasn't working at the hospital. Even though my son became vegan at diagnosis, he delighted in hearing all of the juicy, meaty details.

I never learned the night nurse's name, and my son is not here anymore, so I can't ask him. This nurse's presence provided comfort to a young man whose life had changed profoundly and irreversibly, and I am grateful. Maybe his name was Matthew, too.

Expand full comment
author

Thank you for sharing this beautiful story. Maybe his name was Matthew, too :) These angels on earth give so much to us all in our hard moments, even when we weren't touched directly. They touch us all. Just amazing. Much love, and honoring your son's story.

Expand full comment
Mar 8Liked by Alexa Wilding

I am a pediatric hospital chaplain and I am so touched by your reflection. I am so grateful Matthew was a companion and source of comfort for you and Lou. I’m here to say, Matthew without a doubt thinks of you both often too.

Expand full comment
author

Thank you, that means so much :) Thank you for the work you do and for your kind words., and for sharing.

Expand full comment
Mar 7Liked by Alexa Wilding

"But he selflessly left his story at the door, and in doing so, I loosened the grip around my own."

What a poignant and beautiful insight about how to really care for and be there for someone. This will stick with me...

Expand full comment
author

Thank you Ed. :) I'm so happy you're reading my stories. If I can't have dinner with you every week well at least I can write these! With a side of caviar on ice :) !

Expand full comment
Mar 7Liked by Alexa Wilding

beautiful Alexa! You are a Matthew!

Expand full comment
author

As are you! We can try our best to be Matthews together in our kick pants! xx

Expand full comment
Mar 7Liked by Alexa Wilding

In my hospital in Paris there was a massage therapists coming every Thursday. She was my Matthew. No talking necessary, just the body and mind at peace for 30 minutes a week. Thank you for bringing me memory of this beautiful person.

Expand full comment
author

Oh what a beautiful gift that must have been. Thank you for sharing with us.

Expand full comment
Mar 7Liked by Alexa Wilding

May we all be a little more Matthew whenever we can. Thank you, Alexa, for bringing light into this grey day.

Expand full comment
author

Yes! Thank you for reading. Here's to finding that bit of Matthew for today. :)

Expand full comment

Thinking of my own Matthew today, and I’m so grateful, thank you for the reminder in these words.

Expand full comment
author

To the Matthews! Thank you, friend x

Expand full comment
Mar 9Liked by Alexa Wilding

I think holding complexity is an energy we need to highlight and foster more of this day and age, so I’m grateful you are doing just that. We don’t need to pick a side, or declare an opinion, most of the time just being present and empathetic is far more powerful. ♥️

Expand full comment
author

Yes, just showing up for what is. I agree, especially these days we are living in. Thank you for sharing. :)

Expand full comment

I’m currently resisting looking at results of my latest labs and this was comforting to read, thank you.

Expand full comment
author

I had labs yesterday while I finished writing this. Glad to offer even a moment of comfort. Sending understanding.

Expand full comment