Not long ago, I attended the funeral of a friend.  Robert Huber died much too young at 58, from a rare lung disease.

During his seven months at the Vancouver General Hospital (VGH), many friends made meals for Robert and his wife Martha Burton.  In fact, one friend rechristened VGH as the Vancouver Gourmet Hospital.

My wife Marcia and I were lucky enough to bring meals to Robert and Martha.  I told Martha at Robert's memorial service that we actually benefitted more than they did from the experience.  And it is true.  Yes, occasionally we were rushing to get the food to Robert on time, especially when we were unlucky with parking.  But once we got into the room, it was pure delight.

Robert had a spiritual practice for the last 25 years and meditated on a daily basis.  This almost certainly allowed him to extend his life, because when he had difficulty breathing, he could calm his mind - something that impressed the doctors and lung specialists.  His practice clearly helped him accept that he was dying.  It allowed him time to prepare, to deal with the issues that he needed to deal with, and to strengthen relationships with friends and family.

Martha and Robert made you fall in love with them within minutes of meeting them.  Among the many reasons: their kindness and caring.  They give so much to other people, that others want to give to them.  And both parties benefit greatly.  It's another way the power of giving manifests itself in our lives.  People like Martha and Robert give love, and therefore receive much love in return.

So if you have friends in a hospital, or even aquaintances who you like, consider making a special meal for them.

It's the kind of thing our grandparents did all the time for neighbours.  It's a great way to build relationships and community.