Saturday, December 14, 2024

Relishing the fragile gift of life

I’ll never forget when, in an epic crossover event, Kara Danvers (A.K.A. Supergirl; portrayed by Melissa Benoist) introduced Oliver Queen/Green Arrow (Steven Amell) and Barry Allen/The Flash (Grant Gustin) to her “super” cousin; this was their first look at Clark Kent, played by Tyler Hoechlin.  “I’m so excited you guys get to meet my cousin,” Kara said.  “This is that cousin?” Barry asked.  But they learned quickly that this man didn’t want the spotlight or the glory.  He simply replied, “Please.  Call me Clark.” 

Tyler’s Superman actually first appeared in season 2 of “Supergirl”.  Let me state this definitely for the record: while Melissa Benoist was great for 6 years as Supergirl, the actual show “Supergirl” itself had several problematic storylines that I don’t endorse or condone.  That said, for all its missteps, if it hadn’t existed, “Superman and Lois” (a spin-off of “Supergirl”) wouldn’t have either.  Incidentally, while I’m on the subject, I have now seen 7 of the 10 episodes from the 4th and final season of “Superman and Lois”.  It’s been fun and emotionally gripping, but that’s a whole other blog for another day.   

That particular crossover I began with – an event known as “Elseworlds” – went on to showcase just how talented Tyler Hoechlin is as an actor.  In part 3 of that saga, we see Tyler not only as the Superman we know and love, but also as an evil Superman.  It would be easy to get bogged down in the details of the plot; suffice to say, this story wasn’t the typical evil Superman story – which has been way overdone.  Anyway, once again, this showcased Tyler’s talent to play both the hero and the villain effectively.  Now, I’ve written all I have so far to get to this point; where I can describe the following scene.

After they defeated the corrupt Superman, Barry and Oliver had a drink in a bar to celebrate (even though Barry, as a speedster, can’t feel the effects of alcohol).  As per usual, Barry wanted to hug Oliver.  But Oliver, not the touchy-feely type, declines the hug and instead offers a toast.  To appreciating what you have, however long you might have it.”

Oliver’s words in this toast come to my mind often, as I consider the trips through the valley of the shadow of death in my own life.  My health challenges in 2023 were a reminder to cherish every day for the gift it is.  Oliver hit the nail on the head: we don’t really know how long we will enjoy life.  The fact is, we are not promised tomorrow. 

I recently shared with you that my younger brother is about to turn 40; this is a gift to be celebrated.  At the same time, we are also coming up on the 9th Christmas without our father, Jerry Bauer.  No one would have predicted that he was about to pass away; he barely had caffeine, he ate right, he exercised; but he would soon enter his rewards in Heaven.  I often say you never know what a day will bring.  Therefore, let’s relish life, in all its fragility.

God bless,

Kevin

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