The Song of Simeon

Part of the extended Christmas story is the presentation of Jesus in the temple on the eigth day (for his circumcision). When Mary and Joseph arrive with the baby they are shocked by the reception they get from an old man who lives in the temple, Simeon. He says the words that we know as a familiar parting blessing,

"Lord, now let your servant depart in peace, according to your word;
for my eyes have seen your salvation,
which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
a light for revelation to the Gentiles
and for glory to your people Israel."

These words are also commonly used in funeral services. I thought of them today as I participated in a memorial service for a fellow birder (more here). At the gathering following the memorial, I heard a story about Steve's final days in hospice that illustrated how one can live a life of hope like Simeon did...right up to the end.

Linda told me how she was unsure of what to say when she visited Steve in hospice, so she decided that she couldn't rehearse such a thing and just (wisely) showed up. She quickly learned that she had made the right decision as Steve took over the conversation, telling her how he had recently had a classic look at a white-eyed vireo, seeing all the field marks and obviously enjoying the rare treat. Here was a man who understood that his life list was not going to get any longer, but he knew enough to enjoy every last bird on his last year list.

If you knew that this were your last day on earth, how would you want to spend it? I pray that the answer is "doing exactly what I'm doing."