It's a relatively short message this week, but one I feel is important to share.
I turned 50 two months ago, and I’m feeling in ridiculously good health. So is my nearest and dearest—my wife who is one of the strongest people I know, my mother, healthy as a horse; my sister, who’s just received her New Zealand citizenship and is still intent on world domination; and my kids, who, despite driving me crazy, are strong and hardy little buggers who are rapidly developing into proper little people. Even the dog has outlived all my other furry friends, and still acts like a puppy.
But I’m reminded that not everyone is as fortunate. Some of our good friends have had sudden and harrowing experiences with cancer, others are fighting autoimmune disease and other various ailments that just don’t belong with healthy and vibrant 40 and 50-something-year-olds. While some have survived, others have tragically lost their battle. Miracles have happened, but they are few and far between.
Many of these brave people are still fighting the good fight, and some live with the constant fear of relapse, their diseases merely in remission. They handle their Democles shadows with a grace and fortitude that leaves me humbled. And these stories are stark reminders to be deeply grateful for our health and vitality every single day—the ability to walk, talk, see, hear, enjoy a good meal, go for a run, or savour a glass of wine.
We shouldn’t take these simple yet profound pleasures for granted. Yet we do, too much.
My message to you today: be empathetic, because you never truly know what others are going through. Also, be constantly grateful for the good and basic agency you have in your life, and wake up each day determined to live it to the fullest.
PG’s Pro Tip:
This is not a rehearsal, folks. Live large and remember to be kind. And always grateful.
Comments