Silver linings

Life is full of ups and downs... now that sounds profound, doesn't it? Not exactly! We all know it's true - while we have much to be thankful for there are times when that silver lining is just a little bit more difficult to find. Such, as they say, is life.

Fortunately, I am not a 'down' kind of person. I tend to find silver linings all around me - I believe that is a gift from God, I really do. I am actually not writing this to say, "Yay for me! Aren't I great?!" It's life that has me writing this, with all its wonder and experiences thrown in for good measure. Don't expect anything profound from me, I am, in fact, not profound. But I am real and I am positive, an odd mix, I know, but it pretty well sums me up.

Now, for the reasons I am writing this blog...
First. I had the stomach flu for 5 days, yes, count them, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and finally on Monday I began to feel better... finally! Again, not writing this for you to feel sorry for me, I survived! One of the greatest reasons I survived my five pretty much bed-ridden days was due to the amazing man I chose for my husband and eternal companion. Yes indeed! When Pat was home he was taking care of me, making sure I was warm by bringing me extra blankets, making me tea, bringing me toast or crackers, whichever I could stomach at the time. He made me soup and scrambled eggs. He was even willing to make me tapioca, but I was not willing to partake so he did not! He closed the blinds when I was sleepy to ensure my rest, he came home from work during his lunch hour in order to check on me... he was all the things I ever wanted him to be for me when I was sick!!! So, I am singing his praises... how grateful I am for his kindness, his love, his ability to look at me when I am in such a state and still love me. He is simply amazing, and I am especially blessed.

Which brings me to my second thought:
My niece, Donna, has colon cancer. She will be 41 on June 30th. Her husband, Seppi, has lovingly cared for her throughout this entire ordeal, even when dealing with the death of his own father. Everytime Donna and I talk lately she mentions how he has been there for her and is taking such good care of her. Donna had surgery last week to remove the portion of her colon that had the cancer in it. Seppi was nearby - always. Tonight she found out that the cancer was in eleven of the eighteen lymph nodes they removed. I believe that may put her at stage 3C, but I am not sure. We were on our way to their home to visit with them (after visiting with my mom) when my sister called and asked that we not go. Donna had just gotten the call and was extremely upset, naturally. Later when my sister called to give me the news about Donna she said she had talked to Seppi and he was supportive, calm and positive. Now, that is a rock of a husband. Has he had weak moments? Of course! He is human. However, he is willing to put his own feelings aside and think only of Donna's welfare. I love Seppi. I am so grateful that they have each other. What a great blessing.

I love silver linings - and the various wonderful forms they come in.