I started this post in June on my birthday, contemplating my life. I now have a definite past as a professional, a daughter, a scuba diver, and, right now, a recovering golfer. I described the experience of living with a health condition, and a challenge is maintaining balance and keeping my proprioceptors sharp.

Some days everything moves smoothly; other days I need to scan constantly to notice if anything is off, like automatically walking and recognizing a misstep as a lapse in the brain. This is when I am more transparent about needing spotting or assistance, especially with stairs or uneven ground. I prepare for some activities by toting along a trekking pole to provide some support. I challenge myself by playing pickleball, and therein lies the rub–risk of a fall to be active.

The condition of Parkinson’s means variability not only in physical but also in emotional and psychological aspects. The individuals who are family, friends, acquaintances, and a close companion, my dog, mean so much in the way life goes. These are my cheerleaders, my inspiration, my intrinsic purpose and my external conscience.

It’s the circles we build and attend to that make life worth living. So I have been enjoying summer here by Georgian Bay with the Moose (dog), who has a terrific life (my perspective): fed twice a day, walked 3 times a day, day trips and short escapades to the bark park and treats for ongoing good behaviour. Moose is my donor of unconditional love, and right now he’s flaked out on his side sleeping, yet I know he’s just a twitch from fully conscious to sentry duty. I guess the reason I’m contemplative is that I’m now receiving support more than providing it (to my thinking). Those who are needy and not forthcoming with their contribution of caring mean some individuals are no longer in the inner circle of my care and support.

The advantage of being retired is to have a more flexible lifestyle, and I have been enjoying a laid-back timetable. The title is a good reminder to make it a priority to tell those you care for how much they mean in your life. There are no guarantees that you’ll have lots of time; don’t delay; express your love and admiration for those who mean a lot to you. Practice no regrets, and if you have a few, then you did take some chances, and that’s having a life. Namaste

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Tagged as: dogs life love mental-health writing

Paula M

Retired Registered Nurse (Non-practicing) Storyteller, Healer, Scribe, Transformational Leader