One of my dearest friends in the throes of a major illness has had one setback after another. He and his loved ones have handled the circumstances with courage and grace. Their sutuation is a constant reminder that much of what I take for granted can be gone in a fleeting second. All of the physical abilities to see.hear.walk and partake in the fullness of daily life are gifts to be treasured. I hope that my friend and his love ones find some measure of peace in their hours of great need, for with all the other physical gifts that I currently possess they pale compared to the love and friendship I share with them.