One of the questions often asked of a patient/guest/inmate(?) in the hospice is "Are you comfortable?" or "What is your level of comfort?" In most cases, the assumption is that pain and comfort have an direct inverse relationship - when pain is up, comfort is down and vice versa. I guess that this is simplistically true, but it also shows how the meaning and understanding of the word comfort has changed over time. Today we tend to think of it predominantly in terms of freedom from pain and distress or even prosperity and luxury.

The word comfort comes from two Latin words con ("together") and fortis ("strong"). The combination means "strong together" or "strengthened by being with".

I have to say that I prefer this understanding of comfort even though it is often at odds with popular usage. I suspect that is it also more faithful to the scriptures as evidenced in Psalm 23:4 where is says Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

It is another one of those exquisite paradoxes - we can experience great pain or distress, or be facing significant hardship and challenge, but know great comfort at the same time. Sue and I are understanding this more and more as each day passes. What a joy it is to be secure in the comfort of the Lord, and the comfort of strong loving and supportive relationships with family, friends and even 'strangers'. We are indeed comfort-able - able to be strong together. What a privilege it is to live smack bang in the middle of yet another paradox!

In case you are wondering, things are somewhat challenging at present both physically and emotionally. It seems clear that it is sensible to stay in the hospice at least for the coming week while Sue has four days of palliative radiation therapy starting tomorrow. We are still working with the Palliative Care doctor and hospice staff to strike a balance between pain and lucidity. We are not there yet. However, Sue has just managed an assisted shower, hair wash and a few sips of coffee before slipping back to sleep from all the effort. This is a significant move forward.

Quote of the week: If Sue has her dose of morphine reduced, does that mean she is getting less-phine? Thanks Jim, we have been cackling about that on and off since yesterday!

Yours, in rich and mutual comfort.