Thinking of Bella Claire

How does it happen that when you get used to something so much you start taking it for granted? For example, when you learn how to drive, you learn to use your signal when you turn. You sit up straight and watch the traffic. You check your mirrors each time and wear your seatbelt. Then as you get older and used to driving you start eating and driving at the same time, a drink at first but then a taco and move up to a burger. You start talking on the cell phone and driving, you forget your seatbelt or your turn signal. I was going to write about my medicine regimen being sort of like that. When I first started off, I would diligently take all of my medicine at the right times. I would wear my mask in public when I was nutrapenic. I would eat all the right foods at the right time. I was going to write that as time has gone on, I have forgotten to take medicine (which I have paid for dearly), I get embarrassed to wear my mask in public even though it is good for me, and I forget and have ice or produce when I'm nutrapenic, or spicy foods after chemo. I had thought of how the car and medicine were similar until last night.
I have a nephew and his wife, Ben and Mary, who just had their first born child, Bella Claire. They have their own blog at http://thebrownfamilyof3.blogspot.com. It was exciting for nine months waiting for Bella to make an appearance. The pregnancy pictures, the baby showers, getting the room ready. All very exciting. Then the big day arrives and Bella makes her entry into the world and everyone is very happy! Something about a newborn reminds us all about how wonderful life is. Life is the way it is supposed to be. Last night, they had to take Bella into the hospital. She is sleeping to much and they don't know why. All of the sudden I could remember when my oldest daughter Katy had a fever so high you could cook an egg on her. I remember being a first time parent and hearing they were going to do a spinal tap on Katy and we weren't allowed to hold her hand because she would scream too much. I remember sitting in her hospital room with her mother all night long until the fever broke. The news of Bella going into the hospital brought all that back. Life was going good and you take it for granted because that is the way it is supposed to be, then something happens to jolt you back into reality. The good thing is that Katy turned out to be just fine, and I pray that the same thing will happen for Bella. For fifty years, I lived life. I had started taking shortcuts though, became wrapped up in my own thoughts and feelings, not paying as much attention to those around me. Basically, not adjusting my mirrors, not wearing my seatbelt or using my turn signals in life. Then I got diagnosed with lymphoma. A jolt of reality. I have learned all over again just how precious life really is, what really matters, how you should really spend your time, how precious your spouse, family and friends really are. When I was in the hospital, couldn't breathe and just found out I have cancer, I set my goal to dance at my newborn first granddaughter's (Norah Grace) wedding. With your prayers and the love of God, I honestly feel I will be able to do that now. This morning, a new goal of mine is to make sure I do for others as you have done for me. I want to be invited to Bella Claire's wedding. Let those around you know you love and care for them. Life is short - life is so precious!