Generosity goes around

My heart is feeling especially full today. Another of my friends has been incredibly generous and I have been sitting here reflecting on how I have relied on all of you in different ways. I would not have been able to live the life I have for the past thirteen or so years if it hadn't been for the generosity of my friends. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank all of you for what you have contributed to my well being over the years, and continue to now. I've lived a somewhat unorthodox life. Many years ago I knew a woman who did something similar and she kept telling me that anyone can live without an income, or with a reduced income. I remember thinking, 'who's she kidding?' Unless we live off the land, and I'm certainly not qualified to do that this time around, then we can only live without an income by the grace of others' efforts - and I don't just mean financial. I can only help Geoff and Fleur and Aidan because I have help myself. I knew at the start of this illness that they would not be able to afford the amount of my time and energy that they would need. It really was a blessing that we could take money out of the equation and I could just do what needed to be done, and that I have had the time to do it. That's a run-on effect that is reassuring to me. I've had emotional support, practical support and willing ears to listen to me process this whole episode. And all of this so that a man can die supported himself. It seems right. I gratefully recognise all of you as part of the warp and weft of my life.