June 2005

     Sixth Rule of the Universe: Priorities. When we focus on our highest values and goals, trivialities vanish. If you were to ask me what my priorities are, I would say relationships, health, and personal goals- spiritual, intellectual, physical, and material. However, if you asked me what I think about most, I would have to admit that material goals take up an inordinate space in my mind. That is, until a severe reminder of life's fragility shows up.
     My recent trip to Washington D.C. and parts of Virginia was exciting and happy on the front end and very sad at the back end. It was so great seeing some of my old friends, dining in my favorite restaurants, and visiting my favorite museum- the National Gallery of Art where I used to work.
     The very sad but also fortuitous part of the trip was my last stop to visit Constance Ingles, my great friend and mentor, at her 18th century, stunningly elegant home near Williamsburg called White Marsh Plantation, where I have visited for over 38 years. The day after my best friend, Gail, and I arrived, Connie Ingles' 58-year old son, who lived in the area, died of cancer leaving his wife and three children, having lost their oldest son in an accident a year and a half ago. It was a miracle that we were there to offer help to the family. As we went through family albums pulling pictures of Connie's son as a baby, then young boy, then grown with his own family, I was reminded of the many funny stories that Mac's mischief had created. I was also reminded of how cruel life can be.
     I have been jolted back to where my real priorities should always lie: cultivating, like fine orchids, the many wonderful family and friend relationships blessing my life. May we use every moment to capture and share all the love and fun we can with our beautiful orchids and give courage and faith to those who are bereaved, especially Mac's wife, Lorraine, and Mac's mother, Connie. Mac Ingles has left us with this charge.
     God, please bless him as he blessed us.
Movies, books, ad trivium.
     French Women Don't Get Fat by the CEO of Clicquot (champagne) has changed my perspective on cooking and dieting. Basically, have fun with the first, use fresh everything, drink champagne and wine, always quality not quantity. And forget the second thing; it never works. My kind of priorities! PYE

    YBD- Your Bounden Duty PYE- Part of Your Education (acronyms à la Archibald Edwards)
                               MNH-you Might Need a Handkerchief (à la LA)