Things I Have Learned
The old adage goes, “We make hay when the sun shines”. So, as February turns into March, and March into April, I will be bravely getting ready to leave my nest. Searching for the best way to protect myself and my caregivers, so we can all be safe and sound. This pandemic has caused changes in most of us and now I am looking at things differently than I ever have before.
What I am NOT looking for
No longer am I looking to amuse myself by shopping and buying things that I do not need. Malls and stores will no longer be for entertainment. I will no longer satisfy myself with the sheer thrill of finding something and buying it, only to bring it home and stuff it into a closet or drawer.
The changes I will make
Thinking long and hard about life since being diagnosed with COPD. Having escaped death, not once but twice, changes you. It makes you realize how little time we have; how fleeting life is and how we waste what we have on the wrong things.
The unknown
Nobody, not even your doctor, can tell you how much time we have left. The likelihood is that we will die from something other than COPD. So, our life is, basically, up to us. We can get moving and do more of what we want to do and find a way to get it done, or we can sit, and watch life pass us by while we are gasping for our next breath. Nobody said it was going to be easy but there are ways and means to get the things done that you want to do. Are you ready to learn the how’s and why’s of doing it?
Checking off what I am seeking
Here's a list of some of the things I intend to do more of:
- Spend more time outside in nature where I can safely distance and socialize with loved ones. I have missed being around my people and I long for that feeling of being included and making memories.
- I will be my only competition; I will happily encourage others to put aside jealousy and do the same.
- Starting when I wake up in the morning and with all that I do, I will find gratitude.
- Acknowledging beauty in all forms and appreciate it and leave it as I found it without destroying it.
- Clearing and cleaning up bills, desks, closets, and drawers. There is nothing more satisfying than a clean empty drawer and knowing where to find something when I need it.
- Find a variety of ways to help others and put more effort into helping without necessarily being acknowledged.
- Practicing deeper, stricter mindfulness and paying attention to things as they are happening. I will acknowledge what is happening and let it go, especially if it is something that doesn’t serve me or wastes my energy.
- Appreciate more, say thank you more, and generally be a kinder, gentler person.
- Grow more plants, grow more food, and make my environment more aesthetically pleasing to the eye and the nose.
Editor’s Note: We are extremely saddened to say that on January 7th, 2024, Barbara Moore passed away. Barbara’s advocacy efforts and writing continue to reach many. She will be deeply missed.
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