I do try to focus on the positives of life, try to follow in the footsteps of my Grandfather, whom Dad always called “the eternal optimist.”
Usually it’s pretty easy for me, unless I am scared or worried. Then I have to squash down my “writer’s imagination,” which can imagine all sorts of horrible things going wrong.
But today I’ll admit what I miss:
A recliner.
Going exactly where I want to, when I want to.
Seeing my parents and siblings.
Holiday parties.
Church.
However, I am so grateful it’s easy to connect through phone, internet, etc. I remember the days when long distance phone cost so much I had to limit the time talking to Mom! I also love when friends have come out here to visit.
And now I will list things I’m thankful for that have come because of illness:
Totally different perspective on life.
More patience.
New friends.
Living here in the Black Hills. The Hills that still seem enchanting to me, because when I was young we’d come here and spend time with my dear Grandparents, revel in nature and old buildings so different from home, enjoy really fun outings with my parents, take a break from “life” for a while. Our trips here during childhood were almost like reaching the back of the wardrobe and finding Narnia.
Time to write.
Stronger marriage.
Greater compassion.
Christa Upton Black Hills Picture Books Edgemont, SD 57735
