Ending Up Happy

Still waiting on that insurance letter, but in the meantime...

For those of you who know me personally, you're aware that most of my 45 years have not been easy ones. You'd wonder how so many bad things could happen in one person's life, in fact - a dear friend for years urged me to write a book about my experiences. Childhood traumas that no one should have to endure, leaving home at a very young age to fend for myself, a first marriage that should never have happened (except for the tremendous gift of a daughter whom I treasure), and health issues that never seem to let up.

A frightening path is ahead. If I let myself think about it I could put myself into a right state, but I try hard not to. I'd like to share with you the thoughts that keep me sane.

I am loved by two people who mean everything to me. Both came to me in the later years of my life, and I truly don't know what I'd do without my husband and daughter. Someone upstairs has been looking out for me in sending me the gift of unconditional love.

I believe in karma. I've tried hard to do the right thing, take the high road and trust that I will get the odd break. And I do.

I'm getting much better at letting go, not sweating the small stuff. That's all I'll say on that subject right now, but it's been a huge transition for me!

Finally being able to pursue my passion. As I child I was discouraged from following my heart, but almost ten years ago after yet another health crisis I decided that I could no longer keep plugging away at a career that didn't make my heart sing. My income tanked significantly, and I had numerous setbacks - but I've been able wake up each morning excited about what I'm doing. Even though for the last year and half it's been impossible to photograph as much as I would have wanted to - I can still create images in my head whenever I want. Really, I live and breathe this stuff!

I choose to be happy. Most days. It's really unusual for me not to be happy. I choose to be thankful for the blessings in my life - primarily for those two very special people, and for the chance to follow my heart. I should add that had it not been for giving up my corporate career, I wouldn't have met my husband. It was just meant to be!

Believing that a happy ending is possible. Understanding that a happy ending doesn't have to include a cure for my illness, or living to a ripe old age. I choose to see my happy ending accommodating these challenges.

On a note of following a passion; having been pretty much housebound for almost a year and half, I've come to enjoy downloadable podcasts. Granted, the majority of my subscriptions are photography related and likely of little interest to most of you but I do come across the occasional podcast that resonates with me on another level, and might with you too.

This one is by Sir Ken Robinson. The theme is education reform, but I found myself smiling as I heard him speak about following ones' passion.

http://www.ted.com/talks/sir_ken_robinson_bring_on_the_revolution.html

Do let me know if you pull a gem or two out of this one as well!