Week 136

Positive post Sunday, September 22, 2019…. Week 136.  Last week I wrote about getting back in the game, and this week I’m continuing with that theme in a more personal and direct way.  13 years ago, after feeling sick with a fever and low energy for several weeks, I received devastating news.  I had an unforeseen medical condition that required a very serious life-threatening surgery.  

Along with the obvious fears and concerns, the surgery meant that I would have to stop bicycle racing, at least for a while.  Those that know me well, know that was a tough pill to swallow😊.  But, thanks to the love, prayers and support of family and friends, after only a few painful weeks of recovery, I was able to “get back in the game”, or should I say get back up and riding!  An amazingly quick recovery from such a serious and invasive surgery.

13 years later, here I am writing my 136^th Positive Post Sunday.  With 5 kids and 11 grandkids all under 16, I can’t even imagine missing the last 13 years of my life.  I am incredibly blessed, and I look forward to creating many more memories in the years ahead.  I will be eternally grateful to all those who have allowed me to continue my life journey, including the medical staff at St. Bernardine Medical Center and especially the man upstairs!

So, you might wonder how I was able to beat the odds, recover and get back in the game so fast.  The answer is very simple, the “Triangle of Life”, which I have written about in previous posts.  See my PPSs for weeks 46 on December 31, 2017, 47 on January 7, 2018, 48 on January 14, 2018 and 98 on December 30, 2018 for more details. Here’s a short sample:

1. FAITH – Having the Lord alongside me before, during and after my surgery.  There is a reason I am still here, my work here on earth is not complete.
2. FAMILY – An amazing, strong and loving support system.  My reason and motivation to make it through the surgery and keep living.
3. FITNESS – Being in good shape both physically and mentally prior to the surgery.  Clearly why I recovered so fast.

If you are experiencing medical challenges, preparing for a procedure or surgery, or just feel like you have been out of the game too long, check the strength of your “triangle of life”.  I’m fully convinced that my strong and sustainable Triangle of Life is the reason I made it through this challenging time in my life 13 years ago so well, and how I make it through all the challenges God throws my way, and there are many.  

I have also learned that we don’t have to wait for a life-threatening surgery or for a tough time in our lives to leverage our Triangle of Life.  During the good times, we can give thanks to the Lord, celebrate with our families and shore up our physical and mental fitness.  Reinforcing our Triangle of Life, is like putting money in the bank, investing in our futures or saving for a rainy day.

Is your “Triangle of Life” strong and ready to support you during the challenges the good Lord throws your way?  Do you build and strengthen your Triangle of Life during the good times in your life?