Speeches and Lessons

I was lucky enough last night to give my second ever presentation on the Appalachian Trail, through an interactive slide-show for students at UA.  It had been awhile since I had to really looked through my pictures and journal from my trip and it was perfect timing.

As I worked on my PowerPoint presentation, I was thinking on how I wanted to wrap up this hour long journey down memory lane with the students.  Something very philosophical, along the lines of what I learned out there - what I took away from it all.

"uh oh" I thought.

What I left the trail with:

• That I am a strong person – who can do much more than I ever thought
  
• That I like life simplified – not much to worry about, love and be kind to people and to always be appreciative of running water, a warm bed, comfy clothes, showers, home, and life in general
• That taking care of your body is very important
• That life is worth LIVING!!!

Oops, what happened in 7 years that I forgot some of this.  Hello wake up call - another gentle life reminder to keep above all of this past year.

Ironically at this very moment my husband is in an interview - a great promotion in his job is almost a reality.  At the same time today, my father is at an oncologist appointment to see if his Leukemia is progressing.  This is my life, for every good thing comes a struggle.  I think that may just be life, but I do not want to accept that things are constantly a struggle - that cannot be true.

I thank life for reminding me what the focus should be - to be kind, appreciate the little things, and surround yourself with loving and supportive friends & family.