What Do I See?

I grew up in a country where bicycle riding was hazardous. Getting down the driveway presented a hazard by itself. But the main risk was bicycling along a twisting country road where most drivers did not know there was a speed limit, let alone pay attention to it. 

When was in my 50’s, my husband, Lee, and I decided to take up cycling. We bought matching Trek bikes and helmets. Lee had ridden bicycles all his life and was anxious to get started. But I needed to learn the basic skills, like getting upright and avoiding potholes. It did not take long until I recognized that if I kept my eyes on the pothole, I would end up in it. My only safety, when I saw a pothole ahead, was to keep my eyes to the solid road beside it. 

This lesson has applied to many areas in my life. If my focus is on a potential disaster, the disaster would find me. My best life happens when I look at the solid, reliable truths that my parents taught me: make your bed, do your chores, study hard, focus on helping other people and be thankful for every gift you are given. 

Toward the end of life, whether due to illness or aging, it is easy to begin to see a grim outcome. Looking at this can lead a person to be discouraged, distressed, anxious or angry. None of these is a pleasant feeling. Perhaps by taking a bit of time each day to look at what is good in life, all the care we are receiving, the companionship of others who spend time with us, or the beauty of nature, or the sound of music, you can find an alternative vision.