A Healthy Perspective

I've been given many reminders lately that I should live this life of mine and truly appreciate the little joys I've been blessed with.  Things have happened in the lives of those around me that make me stop and look closer at what I've got, what I'm doing, where I'm headed..  What am I doing?  Is it worth it?  Am I happy, I mean truly happy?  Am I giving time to the important little everyday moments that slip away all to quickly?

Over the course of the last several months,  I've experienced how quickly things can change.  A dear friend and roll model of mine has fought what seems like every infection possible and continues to fight with a faithful spirit that is an inspiration.  My husband's cousin (my cousin-in-law?) found out that she had been fighting cancer for an unknown amount of time and has since had surgery, treatment, and a new lease on her life.  A co-worker of mine was admitted to the hospital over the weekend after feeling ill only to find himself undergoing a triple-bypass surgery a few days ago.  Eight months ago, my young cousin went into the hospital with back pain..  Now, she visits our memories with her sweet smile.

So much that I've taken for granted could be gone in an instant..

My health is not guaranteed.  It could change tomorrow.  I could be in the hospital.
The health of my family is not guaranteed..  I could be visiting the hospital tomorrow.

Today is all that I know I have.  I want to do everything I can to build a healthy life for myself and my family ~ healthy physically, emotionally, spiritually.  All the little changes I've been trying to make now have a deeper meaning.. the reality of how quickly things change is so much closer to home.  Life, the everyday moments that make up my life, is so very precious and so very fragile..  So, to follow advise of those I mentioned, I'm trying harder to take in every moment and appreciate it for what it is.  I'm putting more effort into letting go of needless anger and not giving energy to negative attitudes.  I'm giving more time to my children.. because my time with them is passing faster than I could ever have imagined when I cradled them in my arms.  I'm giving thanks for what I have, because I really do have a lot ~