The Gift of Good Health

I feel so blessed to be in good health. I am able to be physically active, which allows me to fully appreciate all life has to offer. I have the ability to do something as simple as play catch with my son or help my daughter practice her tennis stroke. And, on the more extreme side, my good health means I can train for a marathon and participate in multisport racing. This is something I never take for granted.

“Gratitude is an art of painting an adversity into a lovely picture.” ~ Kak Sri

As grateful as I am for my good health and all the possibilities in life I have as a result, I am equally appreciative for the medical challenges I have faced. I don’t lose perspective on what a blessing it is to be healthy because I have had periods where my health has not been good.

And, even though I have had my share of medical issues, I know these challenges aren’t as serious as what others have faced. The friends who have bravely faced more are heros to me. Two friends in particular didn’t have the “poor me” attitude, but instead looked at their situation as something simply to get through so they could move on with life. One friend had a double mastectomy and intense chemotherapy. The other had major surgery and then almost died from complications. She unexpectedly spent months in the hospital and had several more surgeries as a result. These brave ladies would tell you their experiences impacted their lives, but certainly not say it defined who they are or affected their ability to move forward and embrace life again. These women are an inspiration.

Good health is certainly a gift in my life.

What gifts are you appreciative for this holiday?

NOTE: This is part of a one week series.