This morning leaving Mass, I saw a young couple walking to their car. They had been sitting many rows ahead of me in church, and I did not see them walk to the altar to receive the eucharist. Now I saw them in the parking lot, and she was holding on to his arm, taking short, slow steps. He was watching her face and guiding her to the car. I wondered if she was at mass to give thanks for recovery from some illness or operation, though progressing slowly. I then wondered if she was at mass for solace and support as she battled the unknown or had accepted a sad end to her life.  The noon sun was fire-hot on my head. I got in my car, started it and turned on my air-conditioning. I drove away with an image I can’t shake.