Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Tribute to Jim Griffin

Jim Griffin died yesterday morning. I’ve known Jim and Lou for over 15 years, maybe 20. He was my Sunday school teacher for several years during that time. He was honest, gentle, and compassionate. I’m sorry the world no longer has his grace and wisdom. But I’m glad I knew him. I’m glad there are still people here than benefited from his grace and wisdom. I’m glad we were enriched by him. I hope Heaven has a portal for him to view the River in Judea.


Monday, October 20, 2014

Not Everything Is Getting Better

I really value the things that getting older has taught me. I really do believe that I'm a better person now than I was when I was younger. I really do make a better critic, and I really do enjoy life more.

But there are aspects of life that suffer with the aging process. My balance is going down the drain as I sit at the computer. My vision is getting worse every day. My hearing is probably going in the same direction, but it ain't over till it's over. I still have new projects, although some of them may be a rehash of old ones; I still make new friends, even though the activities we engage in may have shifted.

Forgiveness has become more primary to my life and my memories;  I have found the vehemence I felt toward people I used to dislike has faded, and it is easier to consign those who insult me to the providence of payback. 

One of the primary benefits of getting old is finding the things that are improving and adjusting for those that are getting worse. By and large, the things that are deteriorating are physical things and the those that depend of mental and emotional resources are improving. I think I can handle this. My brain is still making connections and my soul is expanding daily. I love to find the things I do better, and I get over the things I can't do anymore. Or I give my daughter and granddaughter a chance to show what they can do. I am still getting better as I get older. You too! Let's celebrate! 

Saturday, October 11, 2014

Side Effects Did It!

I have reconciled myself to the fact I am getting older. Getting older is not bad. Getting feeble, being weak, not being able to walk: these are bad things. And I feel them happening even as I am denying the reality. I stagger when I walk. I can't walk in a straight line anymore. I have begun to use the fitness machines in the exercise room. My logic is that I need to strengthen my legs, but I'm afraid my logic is faulty. 

I'm afraid I have suffered a TIA. It was not a big deal, but it has compromised my ability to walk and maintain my balance. It passed very quickly, but it has left me with some impairments. I think it's all physical. I don't notice any difference in my thinking, comprehension, or reasoning. Of course, if I had damage in those areas, I might not be aware enough to make a good evaluation.

I don't think there is any treatment for this kind of thing. I will see the doctor soon. I can blame it all on the commercials on TV. The vast array of side effects from medication are a sort of safety net to catch all the blame for all kinds of symptoms. It may not be true, but that's what I'm going with now.