About two and a half years ago I was talking with my brother Pat about things that I was going to miss experiencing if I was only able to stay on this earth for the timeline I was given by the Oncologist. One of the big ones, which was imminent, was to be able to see my children graduate from high school and move on to being independent emerging adults in University.
While I was comfortable and at peace with my scenario it was missing these little milestones that bummed me out when I thought about passing on earlier than expected. I knew I had lived a full life, actually felt I filled five lives of adventure, given back to community, raised great kids and was able to take a 26 year journey with the best woman in the world. I was truly at peace.
The other day I sent a text to my brother Pat and proudly let him know that Amanda had selected Dalhousie and we were planning on dropping her off in Halifax at the end of August.
His reply threw me for a loop and has held a big piece of my mind ever since he sent it to me. He reminded me that I sent him a text saying I was so excited that I at least got to see one of my kids off to University.
And now, two years later, I get to do the same with my second child. Talk about a fantastic reminder of what has transpired over the last two years.
I am still here. And to be honest I am feeling pretty darn good.
I am so full of gratitude right now it’s almost impossible to explain. I cannot wait to see my daughter running about with her friends all celebrating a very significant milestone.
And to top it off. I get to give the speech at the ceremony.
Gratitude. Practice it every day. We have so much to be thankful for.