I recently had the honor of spending the day with someone the second day after cancer surgery. He was in and out of sleep with plenty of discomfort.
Slowly walking the halls holding a pole connecting him to several tubes including a large one in his nose, he looked up and asked, "Why did I have to come here and do this again?"
We all know the short answer. But how does someone live a healthy lifestyle of moderation, working out doors, and loving what they do get to this place? Could he have taken better vitamins? Avoided well water? Used sunscreen?
The list goes on. He's found himself in an unfamiliar place of weakness, limitation, and pain knowing this is only the beginning.
What can we take from this? "Life is unpredictable." "Appreciate the moment." "Bla, bla, bla...."
I know you've heard that before. But did you know that we can actually grow in appreciation for the health we have and our already amazing benefits to new and higher levels?
Why don't we allow ourselves to go there? Its like hearing about an amazing destination, finding yourself standing at the gate staring at the first class ticket in your hand, then sliding it back down into your pocket.
Today don't just acknowledge a few good things and shake your head "yes." Let's stoke it up! Feel the goodness around you. Think of new things to appreciate and take time to milk those feelings until you're surprised to find yourself in a place of love you've never been before.
When people ask what its like to have seven kids, I often say love multiplies. It doesn't divide. As we actively think and feel appreciation, each moment will unfold better that the last.
My Father is on a rough road. But I know the love he has allowed to multiply through the years will lighten his burden. Love is all that really matters.
