Joseph Hernandez and his wife of 47 years were preparing for retirement and discussing how they would celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. At 67, he had just received a clean bill of health from his doctor.
Hernandez loved people and he devoted his life’s work to helping them build strong families. While attending a summit this past July, where he was teaching others how to help families thrive, Hernandez became ill and passed away. In the blink of an eye, an undetected aneurysm took him from his bride, his family, friends and colleagues.
In the midst of tragedy, meaningful moments took place that offer powerful takeaways about living life.
When Mrs. Hernandez realized something was wrong and called the ambulance, team members and colleagues who had become friends immediately surrounded her. Some put their dinner plans on hold when they realized what was happening. Friends went to the hospital, orchestrated phone calls and tried to thoughtfully anticipate potential needs. Although they had no idea what to expect, they wanted to be there and offer support.
Hernandez left this earth doing what he loved, surrounded by the people he loved. While remembering him, many talked about how amazing it was that he died doing what he was most passionate about. This led to a discussion about the importance of doing what you love and making the most of every day. “Life is short,” they said. “Make what you are doing count.”
While it is hard to believe that Hernandez actually died, it is a good reminder for us to focus on what really matters in life – relationships.
At the end of the day, the relationships we cultivate make life rich. Life’s pace seems to move faster and faster. Relationships often get kicked to the curb or sidelines while people pursue career aspirations, take care of children and fulfill community commitments.
Have you told your loved ones that you love them lately or taken time to catch up with a longtime friend? Have you forgiven those who have offended you? It is easy to assume there will always be tomorrow, but it is not guaranteed.
Have you ever felt the nudge to visit a friend in the hospital, offer to give a parent a break by caring for their child or call someone just to check in? If so, did you talk yourself out of it because it would throw your entire schedule out of whack? Or maybe you thought you weren’t the right person, wouldn’t know what to say or that it might be somehow awkward.
Perhaps you look back and wish you had taken the time because everything else wasn’t that important, and you realize that, whether you had the words or not, your presence would have been comforting.
During the ordeal and its aftermath, Mrs. Hernandez said it meant a lot that people came to be with her, knowing they had stepped away from important work. There is something to be said for being willing to just show up.
Life is short. Make your moments count.
Julie Baumgardner is president and CEO of First Things First. Contact her at julieb@firstthings.org.