A Note Outside My General Realm …

A number of years ago, I read an interview of Robert Redford, in which he was asked:  Was there anyone he envied?

Yes, he said, there was:  his friend, Paul Newman.  He said that Newman was married to the woman with whom he remained deeply in love after more than 40 years; that he made a movie when he wanted to; that he drove a race car when he wanted to; that he experimented to create an exquisite meal when he wanted to …

I feel likewise blessed:  I am also married to the woman with whom I remain deeply in love after more than 40 years; TLOML and I are lucky to regularly see our children, our son- and daughters-in-law, grandsons, family, and friends; we are able to travel; I exercise as and when I want to (which I thoroughly enjoy); I ponder our investments (which, again, I thoroughly enjoy); I blog when I think I have something to add …

Sen. John McCain, in an interview after he was diagnosed with the brain cancer that ultimately claimed his life, indicated that he had had an extraordinarily blessed life.  Mr. Redford felt that Mr. Newman was similarly fortunate.  I consider myself in their company.  As our nation – and, for those that have concern, the Catholic Church — endure trials which I believe will only intensify in the coming months, may we remain cognizant of our blessings …