Saving the world

Several weeks ago, end of the work day. I pack up my laptop and put on my coat. I have an evening session at the studio, to work on Heart Like a River. "Good night," I say to my co-workers. "I'm off to save the world".

This weekend. Jan's benefit dance. J and I pack up and drive to the hotel where we will stay for the night. I bring a box of Heart Like a River CD's to be sold, proceeds to go to Jan's fund. There is a silent auction. There is goldfish racing. There is dancing, there are speaches. I videotape them. Jan makes a speach. My tape runs out just after she starts. I have another tape, but to unwrap it, replace the tape in the camcorder, will take too long and take me away from from what Jan is saying. I put the camcorder down and give her my full attention instead. She makes a stunning and valiant effort. Her ability to speak is much improved since when I talked to her on the phone about a month ago. She stumbles over her words a few times. She pauses at one point, trying to find the words to express what she wants to say. The audience waits in total silence, gives her the space she needs. Jan finally completes her speach. Everyone applauds.

Near the end of the evening. Jan's sister in-law refers to me as a special friend to the family. Priceless. An honour, a designation I am pleased to hold.

This morning. J and I check out of the hotel. Looking for a place to have breakfast. Decide to stop at the casino. Stuff ourselves at a buffet lunch. Unexpectedly are given two comp tickets for Frankenstein, a rock musical. We eat well and we are entertained well. We came on this weekend to give our generosity at the benefit dance; we receive generosity at the casino.

Almost midnight, we're at home. I am tired and ready to go to bed. J gets a call from her brother. He is in town, for training, he is sick. She boils some water, finds some Neo Citran. "Will you come with me to take the Neo Citran to my brother?" she asks. Is it even an option to say no?

I put on my coat and shoes and find my keys. I guess we're not quite done saving the world yet.