Hi ya Chuck. . . sounds to me you you're doing just fine.  Great to hear from you. . . I learned awhile ago. . . all we have is NOW. . . sixteen plus years ago I began the journey of surviving. . . and found myself on the internet for the first time.  Over these years. . . I traveled. . .I've met special folks like yourself. . . and as I awaken each day. . . I think of how great life is. . . right NOW. . . I have Survived. . . my grand kids. .. are 13 and 12 now. . . they are thrilled that I have joined the local gym and work out every week.  I'm lifting weights. . . running on the treadmill. . . and doing aerobics. . . I AM surviving. . . and thanks to folks like yourself and Jim and Marla and all the other friends I've made who have shared their stories and their strength have made me strong. 

 

One of the first lessons I learned was watching the movie, Patch Adams. . . about a real life doctor, played by Robin Williams. .  who indeed used laughter as medicine. . . IT IS THE best medicine. . . BY smiling at others.. . . I've always gotten one in return, which makes me richer.  Play. .. smile. . . laugh and love. . . LIFE IS GOOD!!

 

Thanks again my friend. . .

 

Evie in NJ 

 

I run for weight control, a stronger cardiovascular system, reduce stress, stave off osteoporosis, socialize with other runners once or twice a week, view flowers (both cultured in gardens and wildflowers), smell the flowers (lilacs are in full bloom in New Hampshire now), see wildlife, gaze at scantily clad beautiful young women, and increase my self esteem.

I pay a price for my running. Days like today I struggle up hills into the wind and my body begs me to stop and walk. Some days I strain or pull a muscle. Other days I sprain a ligament. Often I have a moderate to severe migraine and I suffer for the entire run.

When I'm not running my seven year old cat entices me to play with her. I manage a half hour when we both are in the mood. During the past year an 11 year old great grandson of my neighbors wants to play catch with me. I have fun and he does too. Other neighbors ask me if I'm trying to imitate Tom Brady or Randy Moss. I was never good at throwing passes (hands to small to properly grip a football), but I was fairly good at catching passes.

I have read lots of books about what Cancer Survivors to do to stay healthy and several of them have suggested laughter as good for us. I have never read anything that claims we should play to have fun and feel good about our lives. Am I wrong to play or am I just missing something (like sanity)?

Shalom,
Chuck