Day 1520

Comfort is something we all chase. Recently, we placed a daybed in the sunroom (Thank you, Tom) and it didn’t take the Halo long for them to move right in! Sunshine, soft mattress and air conditioning…what’s not to love?

We all seek comfort, both physical and emotional, and when it is not within reach, we struggle…

*Hot…find cool air or water

*Hungry…look for food

*Tired…sleep

*Hurting…fix the pain

Those are usually the easy ones! The challenge arises when the discomfort comes from sadness or loss. Instead of reaching for food or taking a nap, this is often a two-person fix. Sharing that type of pain is a not always easy and will often take time, patience and a shoulder to lean on.

When my father was in Hospice, there were always loved ones nearby, but they were hurting too. I found that heading out to the rollerblading trails was one way to address my sadness. I would strap on those skates and head out at a breakneck speed. I recall “flying” up steep hills and exerting so much energy it seemed to soothe my heart. Flying down the other side was a reprieve, but the next incline was never far away. It occurred to me that life is like those hills…we are always skating up one side or gliding down the other. The few plateaus are not lengthy, but they help us catch our breath and ready ourselves for the next climb.

Whether we are on the incline, coasting down the other side or relaxing on level ground, there is one thing for certain. The terrain will shift and we must embrace the path ahead whether we want to or not. Sometimes, the only choice we have is HOW we face that road. I figure, we have to move forward, so why not choose a positive attitude and a plan to find as much comfort as you can along the journey.

As for my Golden Halo, “Comfort” is their middle name and their road looks pretty level and pleasant ahead. Perhaps that is meant to be so they can run alongside me on some of those steep hills. Precious boys!