A friend of mine posted a video this weekend, a compilation prepared of his wedding day a little over a year ago, to a woman who brought sunshine back into his life. The video validated what Ive been thinking all weekend: Although 2014 was bad in a number of ways -- many of us lost people we love, while some had issues that are continuing into the new year -- there also was a lot of good stuff and we tend to forget that. Reflecting, I realized for all my bad, I had a lot of good, too. Im thankful for my mother, who should have died this past summer, but didnt and who continues to fight to get better. Mom has many characteristics I admire, but the one I want the most is her ability to put it aside: Theres no sense in worrying about things you cant control, she says. So, while I continue to worry about weather and the effect on her home and living arrangements, Im getting better about putting the other medical issues aside for now because shes right: I cant control them. Im grateful for my friends. Its a small circle, but its tight and the members have my back and thats been important this year. Im grateful for my two furs: They are maddening, they are messy, they are pushy and Im pretty sure theyre either going to kill me or put me in assisted living with a broken neck, but they love me and are always glad to see me, especially when its time for a walk (Animas) or a fast game of ball (Durango). And, the strict exercise regime they enforce is helping to off-set the stress. Im thankful I have a job that pays my bills and a house that is more mine than the mortgage companys and is warm (or it would be, if wed turn up the heat). Im thankful that I can enjoy the good news of others: A sister whose jerk of a boss forced her into a life-changing decision, but one that will work out (as her life-changing decisions always do, because shes a smart and tough cookie). A friend for decades (and one of the first I made here) who came through bypass surgery and continues to be a bright spot in my day. Another long-time friend whose difficult year was offset by the birth of his beloved grandchild, a beautiful little girl. A third long-time friend who lost a beloved person in her life, but gained a new grandniece. A co-worker who met cancer head on and came out a winner, even if it meant he had to spend New Years Eve in the hospital. A young co-worker who says hes genuinely happy for the first time in a long time, because his life is pretty sweet right now. A friend who survived a health scare earlier this year, whos back swinging at conservatives and taking stands that she thinks are important. Im forgetting a lot of stuff and more will occur to me as soon as I quit posting, Im sure. But, you get the idea.
Posted on: Mon, 05 Jan 2015 05:24:24 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015