It is inevitable some time during this mortal visit you will experience a life altering event. Catastrophe can define the rest of your days or it can be an addition to one’s portfolio moving forward.
Strangers look at me with pity and that is completely understandable. If I could switch places I’m sure I would say that poor bastard too. If forced to assess my daily routine to live of course the conclusion would be it sucked. Obsessing over the price of admission one can never enjoy the show.
For those that are close to me I’m David Jayne that happens to have ALS. A few do not see me as disabled. In a few years I will have lived longer with this monster than pre diagnosis yet I have never had a dream as a disabled individual. Are my dreams kind or am I suffering from denial for two decades plus?
It is a simple decision. I can allow situations to dictate my outcome or I can decide to maintain control of my reactions. While ALS consumes hours of my day and affects nearly every activity it is not who I am. The disease has taken nearly everything I held precious. It has destroyed my family, finances, dreams, but it cannot touch my appreciation for life unless I allow it.
Hell yes it gets difficult, but we all possess the extraordinary power of decision to fold or stay in the game. Challenges and obstacles are guaranteed, it is in your control how you will let them affect your outlook. I would like to think ALS has made me a better person bringing out the best more often than the worst. A very sad reality is the overwhelming majority of my friends battling ALS will fulfill the statistical lifespan of this disease, but within their possession is the power to live every day to the fullest.
You have herculean abilities at your disposal. You may doubt yourself or have not faced a life moment demanding their implementation, only conviction separates you. Define yourself rather than circumstance and don’t forget to live. Thanks so much for reading. Have a great day! dj
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I just discovered your blog from 'Living with ALS'. I have read the last few posts and will go back and read the rest. My mother got ALS when she was in her late 70's and passed away when she was 80. She lived with me the last 20 months of her life and she had a similar outlook to yours in one way, she maintained control of her reactions. She almost never gave in to depression, and chose to stay cheerful. I haven't faced that 'life moment' and fear that I would come up short, she was my hero. Thank you for sharing your feelings and the advice from your hard earned experience.
ReplyDeleteDavid, Thanks! Your job is to encourage, to inspire, and you are doing it well.
ReplyDeleteHoward McCarthy
Titusville, Florida
Dx'd 10/2001, doing well
I love your honesty, and ability to explain your life experiences in such humor and grace!! I believe you have so much to teach us all!
ReplyDeleteAll I can do is echo the above comments. I look forward everyday to reading what you have written. I work hard on having your same spirit and courage but I am remembering to live!
ReplyDelete