A Different Perspective

Life is full of changes, some small, some larger. They add up and can eventually lead us in a different direction with an altered focus. In the past few months my job went from four days a week to full time including weekend rotations. In an effort to maximize rehabilitation outcomes, some of our patients now get therapy seven days a week and staff hours were increased accordingly. I love my job but also enjoy many other activities, so the prospect of a longer work week was not thrilling. I have decided not to be reactive and will wait a while before making further career decisions.

My parents have experienced declining health in recent months and I travelled to Mexico twice between October and January to be with them. They are only 22 years older than me and I see my own mortality in their current situation. Age differences are not as significant when years add up. In all of this, life is still good, busy and rewarding. I see the importance of facing only one day at a time and putting aside worries about a future we cannot fully control. On the other hand I cannot procrastinate in making good decisions regarding relationships, health, lifestyle, career and finances. The immortality of youth is a thing of the past.

It was just ten days ago that my brother drove our parents and myself to a high point of land above the town of San Luis de Lozada. The 360 degree panorama was beautiful and included mountains, the town, a cemetery, an old bull fighting ring, and acres of sugar cane fields. Turkey vultures circled at our level but their perspective was one of survival, not admiring the scenery as we were. My brother and I both took pictures and it was interesting to see how our perspectives varied even though we shared the same time and place. 

Perhaps my introspection is related in part to celebrating another birthday last week. I celebrated in Mexico and in Canada with family and am thankful for the healthy and happy years I have enjoyed throughout my life.