The holidays can be tough when you are living with ALS/MND. Honestly, that can be the case for so many this time of year. I am not going to sit here and pretend that it is not a struggle to face occasions with the uncertainty of what the future holds. I think about it often. Will this be my last Christmas, New years, birthday, etc? Only God knows.
It can be easy to let these thoughts consume us. We are resilient creatures, though. When the dark thoughts creep in, we can use perspective. Count blessings. Sometimes we have to dig a little, but they are there. Most everyone who is reading this blog is likely living in the “first world”. So the “problems” that we face, while very real and acute, can still be trumped by “third world” living. What I am trying to say is that there are others in this world who are facing the same challenges that we are, but without the means that many of us are fortunate enough to have. Like I said, I am not trying to minimize any person’s strife. Just finding a way to alter the view that is often shaded by life’s struggles.
As difficult as it is, find value in the life that lies before us. Often, it is the little things that get overshadowed. Everyday, I give thanks for 4 things: a roof over my head, clothes on my back, food on the table and my relationship with God. These are the most essential things of MY life. What are yours? Find them and I am sure you will see how blessed you are. There are people who don’t have those things.
No one ever said our lives would be easy. But we don’t have to make it harder on ourselves. Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, I want to extend my warmest wishes for Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year. Hang in there, everyone.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Gil and the Garcia Family!