Another day ahead...

Another day ahead is another opportunity to work hard. Today I have some errands to run, a book review to write and some football to watch! I paused today to write this post because I've had a few weeks that have caused me to reflect on a few things.

With my neighbor, Heather, being back in the hospital fighting leukemia, I am forced to look at my life. Am I doing what I want to do? Can I still get things done? Well, the answer of course is yes! Life has distracted me but Heather's illness has empowered me. It has reminded me that this life I am living is not forever. It has encouraged me to stand up and do more because life can change in an instant.

You won't find me at any political rally because I don't care enough. That has never been my thing. I've become more disgusted by the behaviors of people on both sides including some friends and colleagues. Everyone is out for their own agenda spewing hate and lies about each other. Well, I am out for mine and it doesn't include any Democrat or Republican ideas. Things I think about directly affect my life and don't require I stand and yell about ideas that don't include my well being.

I am focused on the things that matter to me. I have so many stories and songs lyrics floating around in my head. I am forced to carry a small notebook wherever I go because ideas come no matter what I am doing. My ideas flow constantly sometimes distracting me from what I am doing. But... I am grateful for that!

When I walked into work a few days ago, I overheard a patient talking about staff to another patient. She said, "I feel sorry for the staff because they have to get up so early and come to work." I paused as I walked past her but didn't say anything. As much as I wanted to say something I didn't. Why did she feel sorry for me? Of course, I don't want to work but I want to have a productive life and opportunities to enjoy this life only come when you have money to experience them. I work to pay my bills and to buy the things I desire. Why does she feel sorry for me?

I looked at this patient as her conversation continued amazed at her words. She felt sorry for us? I work on a psychiatric unit that treats those with illnesses ranging from schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression and addictions. This patient just happens to be a heroin addict, mother of two children that she doesn't have custody of, and homeless. Is that life better than mine? I couldn't imagine being homeless and battling a heroin addiction is not a desire of mine either. To live a life full of schemes while trying to beat the system or hiding out in a hospital because I have no place to go, is not something I could bear. Shouldn't I feel sorry for her? Actually I feel sorry for the children being brought into this world addicted to drugs and facing struggles because of the choices their parents made.

I don't want anyone to feel sorry for me. I have the strength, will and desire to get up each day and go to work. I am beyond grateful for the things God has provided for me. I have goals and dreams that will essentially allow me to work for myself entirely one day. Don't feel sorry for me, I say. Pray for my success!