Contributed by Bob Rawlins, oxygen user and consultant to CAIRE Inc. ~
We can’t predict the future. There are many that say they can, but I know that personally, I can’t.
Those of you on this similar journey can probably attest to this. For me, my life changed instantly. From being very healthy, busy, and extremely active, to facing death and a long road to recovery which is where I’m at today.
And recovery for me is trying to live a good quality of life while hoping my lung disease stabilizes enough to do so.
So, how many times have you heard or spoken to others and heard them say, “I wish I was dead.” Now, I’m not suggesting the suicidal situation. But more of the “I’m tired of the struggles of life” type of comments. We know many and we have all been there I’m sure.
Life is hard, sick or not. There are struggles, obstacles, unexpected events, loss, hardships and so on.
Faith gets me through all of this. I wish more people would rely on faith today. No matter what your belief is, it is an inner calming factor and confidence builder.
How many of us are caught up in our status, jobs, materialistic things, or things we just can’t take with us when we are gone?
They are forgetting to live their lives to the fullest. Are you or someone you know like that? Can you picture that person right now? Then, sing them a tune from someone you might know – Taylor Swift.
“You need to calm down, you’re being too loud.”
😊
Funny to a point, but unfortunately true for many people.
Stop and smell the roses is one thing, but living while you are alive is really a different and sometimes a difficult trait to live by.
We all get caught up in life’s struggles no doubt. But what is your prize, more money and wealth, more status and prestige?
Or is it the health and well-being of your family? Is it being able to share in the activities of your children, family and friends?
Some would argue that money and wealth supplies that and I will argue every time that it doesn’t.
Live while you are alive! But not at the expense of yourself and your family.
If it’s lonely at the top, then I want to be at the bottom crowded with love.
This journey has taught me many things. One, being thankful for each day, yes.
But also, living each day to the best I can. It doesn’t always work out exactly like I had hoped or anticipated but the more I try and focus on that the better each day seems to be.
They say, see the good in everything. Ok, easier said then done. What is so good about any kind of lung disease? The everyday struggle of dealing with it. Adapting to the things I can and cannot do? Not fun at times, right?
But we are still ALIVE, so live the best way you know how or can!!!
Change your course of action on how you are going to deal with things. Because while you are alive, you must. One way or another.
Life is full of choices, choices you make. Choose to live!
I get so frustrated at myself and the things I can’t do anymore. Either as quickly as before or not at all. But I must choose, how am I going to get it done? Wait for help, yep, that’s a biggie.
I don’t know about you, but asking for help is like most men stopping to ask for directions. LOL. 😊 At times, a very rare trait.
However, you should learn to do so. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness it is a sign of confidence. You aren’t successful in anything you do by yourself, period.
So, my friends, live your life while you are here and enjoy it as best you can. It goes by too quickly.
I have been so fortunate to meet so many people in my life but some amazing people on this journey of over three years now.
My choice is to, Live while I’m alive. A very valuable lesson. Learn it early and stick to it no matter what.
Till next time.
#breathe-easy
#touchaheart
#laugheveryday
Smile at someone.
Love you all,
– Coach Bob
Bob Rawlins, 61, of Medina, Ohio, is husband to Terese and father to their 14-year-old triplets, a soccer coach, a hospital volunteer, band dad and chaperone, and marketing guru. He uses a FreeStyle Comfort portable oxygen concentrator and an eQuinox portable oxygen concentrator for overnight travel.
If you have been prescribed oxygen therapy, learn more about CAIRE by visiting www.caireinc.com/patients or by calling 1-877-704-0878 to talk to an oxygen advisor.