The other night I was reading and very much enjoying, my new friend and fellow mixed media artist Nanette's blogs. Something she wrote prompted me to write about something I'm really thankful for and it may surprise you. I am thankful that I almost died in 2004 from complete liver failure, as I have autoimmune hepatitis. The road back has been long and is still a "work in progress," but along the way I learned a lot of things. I won't torture you with all the yucky details that being sick entails, instead I'd like to tell you why I am thankful for it.
When you're faced with what might be the end of your life you see things in a very different way. There is an urgency to "get it right." I learned that life is not about things, impressing people, or keeping up with the "Jones'". It’s not about keeping people in your life that bring you grief and heartache. I learned its okay to limit the people you allow in your life and the things you do, to those that are uplifting to you and the ones you care about. It’s about giving and helping those you can lend a hand to, expecting nothing in return. The joy comes in just being able to give in some way. It’s about the love of a child, that pure, unconditional love they give. During my recovery I was blessed with two grandsons, they've taught me a lot and have given me a reason to fight for my health.
I decided to put more people in my life who support me. I have no time for people who are "out to get others" and all that that brings. I learned that life is way too short for that. I found a great group of women (who knows maybe this next year we'll get some men, Layton?) that are supportive of my meager efforts to express myself through art. Each and every one of us want to help each other bring out the best in ourselves, and you rarely find that these days. SO.... having said ALL of that, I'd like to say a great big "Thank you" to all my peeps in the CMMAG. Just for being yourselves and "getting it" you have blessed me SO MUCH!
Okay enough of that, lets get back to creating and having FUN!
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
Debbie,
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear of your illness, but I agree sometimes the slap in the head brings you to reality. I try to count my blessing often. You are part of that circle of special friends. Its great to have people around you that "get it!"
Bless your heart! I had no idea -- but that is a testament to your spirit! I am thrilled that you found us, memaw ;-) You are an integral part of 'the tribe, and I feel fortunate to call you Friend.
ReplyDeleteAll you've been through, all you've told me of your struggles, your boundless creativity, and your kind heart- all are reasons I'm glad you are my friend, and one of my heroes.
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