Page 2 - Sonoma County Gazette 12-18.indd

Dear Readers,
We just came out of my favorite holiday designed to GIVE THANKS for all that we have. Count your BLESSINGS is a family mantra. I inherited a rosy perspective on life with my cup full - not just half-full. I credit my father with that. None of us had an easy life growing up so I believe he came up with survival skills that he thought worthy to pass on to his children. We have used those skills throughout the waves we ride that sometimes throw us to shore with such force it takes time to recover. But we do, because the sun is always shining somewhere, and life goes on as long as we are “looking at the blade side of the grass” as Daddy put it!
Right now I have a few too many friends with serious health issues who are looking at the end of their lives. They are suffering physically, but most have taken the attitude that it’s time to clean up after themselves so they don’t leave a mess for others to clean up. It’s the next Big Adventure. Who knows what’s in store? It could be wonderful!
Many years ago I had an experience that could be defined as near-death. I was lost in darkness and when I looked up I saw a very distant light. I wanted to be near that light so much I vaulted myself through the darkness to get closer and closer. As the light started to encompass me, I felt more love and joy than I could ever imagine. It was far beyond anything I had experienced in my life. I wanted to BE there...to be part of that light - but a voice said, “Turn back. It’s not time. Go back.”
My heart sank but I followed instructions and turned around heading back into the darkness with disappointment. When I became conscious I never forgot that experience. All the books I have read tell me that death is the journey into this light of love and joy. But only people who really believe it get to go there. We go where we think we will go! Well, I’m choosing that light when the time comes! That’s for sure!
But right now I am surround by love and joy and wonder and beauty and all that LIFE has to offer. So as we end this year, I want to share some of my rosy perspective with you. There is joy everywhere...you just have to see it that way. As Daddy said,
“Attitude is Everything.” Happy Holidays & HAPPY NEW YEAR!
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2 - www.sonomacountygazette.com - 12/18