Companionship and the Love of God

As the youngest in a brood of eight, I was always accompanied by someone from my family, whether I was going to school, going to church, or attending social events. As I got older, I found myself being a companion to my family, friends, and sometimes strangers who became my friends.

These days, living in a world amidst COVID-19, I find myself, increasingly, accompanying people: being a companion to someone who was recently diagnosed with cancer; being present to another who is suffering from mental illness; accompanying an elder on her last few hours in this world; being there to celebrate 100 years of being alive.

As a healthcare professional, I find it humbling to walk with patients as they navigate the world of healthcare. In my mind, I think about being of help or giving some sort of assistance to them. At the end of the day as I reflect, I find myself at the receiving end of these patients’ generosity and wisdom.

Most recently I joined a community of women of color, co-led by Carla Orlando and Cezanne Hardy. We started this journey of becoming companions to people of color. This experience has been truly enlightening and uplifting. What a gift to walk with each other as we grow to be able to accompany others on their journeys.

There is a great need for companionship these days. And it is truly humbling for me to be able to be that for another human being – to be a companion. Whether it is only for a few precious moments or for a longer term, being a companion to another human being is such a gift. And in my heart, I have come to know that surely this is made possible with the love of God.

Mercy Lazo is an Ilokana mom who moved to this country about 30 years ago. At present, she is a healthcare worker in supportive housing. She considers St. Therese Church her spiritual home.