Lisa: As I write this, the sun is out and it is a beautiful day. It’s Valentine’s Day. The tree out front is in bloom and spring is in the air here in Southern California. For me, it’s a day to open my heart, let it shine and be thankful. I’m thinking of Gary and how the journey to his diagnosis was metaphorically the longest winter of our lives. We have now come through the darkest hour of our relationship together. Several years were spent in bewilderment and fear of not knowing what was happening to the life we had built together. Life was like living in quick sand and it just seemed like we couldn’t get a foot hold to shift directions. In the last year, our relationship has come full circle and our commitment is stronger than ever. Living in the present moment has never held so much meaning. The present moment is all that we have and each day is to be treasured; even when it turns out to be a difficult day. A friend whose wife has been affected by Early Memory Loss said recently, “We each need to take our situations and find a way to make lemonade out of lemons”. How true. Each day I learn more about the strengths that I didn’t realize that I have and opportunities for growth whether I like them or not. I can say that today I know that I have a pretty darn good idea who my family and friends are; and that is very important on this journey. Today I can say that Gary and I have triumphed in love and we are learning to make our way forward with as much dignity and grace as we can possible muster, both as individuals and as a couple. “Happy Valentine’s Day Gary, I love you! We get to greet each new day with “I love you”. I want you to know that I will be here for you every step of the way. I appreciate and respect all the things that you do for me and I still lean on you in more ways that you know”.
Today we can acknowledge that we are finally able to bring our own experience of this metaphoric winter into a light that may help others find their way. It’s time to celebrate this new season and new beginning in our lives. Gary and I both feel that if we can reach out to others affected by Early Memory Loss to help to build unity, awareness, support and connection; we will have made a difference.
Welcome the spring.
LB
Today we can acknowledge that we are finally able to bring our own experience of this metaphoric winter into a light that may help others find their way. It’s time to celebrate this new season and new beginning in our lives. Gary and I both feel that if we can reach out to others affected by Early Memory Loss to help to build unity, awareness, support and connection; we will have made a difference.
Welcome the spring.
LB
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