Life-changing

I mentioned in my first post this morning that the experience of being in the hospital for the first time has had a profound impact on my life. Here are a few examples of how:

• I have begun to appreciate that my social support network of family, friends, and professional contacts is absolutely outstanding. So many people have visited, called, and sent gifts, emails, and well wishes, all of which have been wonderfully uplifting.
• I have learned that good health—something I have enjoyed for the vast majority of my life—is not something to be taken for granted. I look forward to making conscientious changes in my lifestyle (diet, exercise, sleep, etc.) to maintain optimal health into the future despite any challenges.
• I feel like I finally understand a bit better what it means to let go and let God. This whole thing was very out-of-the-blue and unexpected, and yet I have somehow amazingly been able to keep a positive mindset throughout, not resisting or feeling angry.
• The quality of my human interactions has been phenomenal lately. I've felt genuine human connection more often and intensely in the days since I've been hospitalized. The other night, for example, my family visited and we had what I can only describe as the best quality family time I can remember. We brainstormed together, formulated questions, helped my sister with her homework, consulted even, in an atmosphere of mutual respect and love. It's not like these things are completely out of the norm, but the experience was really quite remarkable and had a great impact on me.

That's all for now. Up next: dietary adventures!

Also: Happy Ayyám-i-Há!