Safely aboard

This morning, I led the prayer at my church. I love to do this because I love the challenge and the centeredness that comes in piecing together words into one prayer. Before I stood up in front of the congregation, my heart was racing with the normal nervousness of speaking your writing aloud, especially to a large group of people. And my thoughts kept turning over and over to Miles Levin.

And then I looked down at the bulletin. August 19th. I believe that it is his birthday. I felt like I'd been patted on the shoulder, reassured why I was thinking of this now-19-year old who has been writing about his journey through cancer for two years. When I stood up in front of the congregation, I asked them to pray for Miles and his many loved ones, especially his family, especially today, especially as he makes the transition into death. Whether I have his birthday correct or not, I remember reading that he really wanted to make it to that day, and that seems to count for much more than the number on the calendar.

It was raining hard and I got home, changed my clothes, kissed Lil E and Bruce and checked my email. And there it was. Miles died early this morning, released from the pain and the deeply emotional struggle with cancer.

I'd like to believe that this man's spirit is now free and I understand that his family must be overwhelmed with new pain and unspeakable loss. Surely, our prayers, warm thoughts and healing wishes can only do good.

If you'd like to read more about Miles, you can start here.