Many times I have
listened to Jim’s voice on our answering machine. I always enjoy just listening to it, but a
couple days ago, a part of the message grabbed my attention, surprising me and
giving me a heartwarming feeling. As
usual, I was doing some morning stretching exercises on my bed before getting
on with my day. I try to place the
landline and cell phones on the bed, but I often forget the landline. Even though the phone cradle is only a few
feet from the bed, maneuvering from my exercise position to answer it is not
easily or quickly accomplished and usually, the call is a recording.
So, on this recent morning just before his July 9th birthday, when the phone rang, I decided to
take my chances and let the machine pick it up.
When Jim’s greeting started to play, these words took a personal
turn: . . . leave a message and I’ll
get back to you as soon as I can.
The sentiment seemed so like Jim, acknowledging our temporary separation
but wanting me to know, he’s working on a reunion as soon as possible. Perhaps it sounds crazy to sense that morning
that his words meant for callers were also meant for me, the woman who loved
him so much for so long—a fact that always seemed to amaze him just a little.
Happy Birthday, Jimmy!
