What a reminder that every human life is unique, valuable, sacred – and we are are each individually known by G-d, who made man in His image in the Beginning. It makes me sad to know people like Derek will be unlikely to survive in the future….after all, with “society’s resources” being stretched by the coming government takeover of the entire healthcare system, why would anyone even suggest spending thousands of dollars to keep a one-pound, five-ounce baby alive?

I’m also in awe of Rex’s mother, Derek’s parents, and of Adam, Kim, and the others who take care of these difficult and rewarding people. I’m not sure I would have it in me….although one never knows what depths of inner resources are present until they get the call. Nevertheless, it heartens me to see such love and commitment to those in need.

One more thing….for me, this sort of thing puts to rest the argument about whether there are inborn talents that differ from one person to another. Can anyone think that Derek’s abilities are waiting inside every human being, just biding their time until the proper amount and kind of practice brings them out? In that case, I’ll repeat the question asked in the film — where did it come from at age two, when he just began pouring out these melodies?

My mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer Disease 3 years ago. I recently placed her in a long term care facility 3 months ago. She cannot remember where we lived together nor the name of the place where she resides now.

Today, while visiting someone had brought in a black French Poodle. It reminded me of my childhood dog and when I recalled the dog’s name and said to her, look mom, it looks just like Sammy, she had no problem remembering the dog or the name – that was more than 55 years ago.

Seasickness. It’s an utterly vile condition, worse, I think, than any other type of motion sickness. When you’re seasick, your entire body is rebelling against you. Worse, there’s no escape. You’re trapped in the middle of an endless ocean, feeling…