All Systems Are Operating Within Normal Parameters…

Your pathology result came back normal – just a benign seborrheic keratosis.

Good news!  All test results are back.  My cholesterol and triglycerides are still a little elevated but nothing that can’t be worked out through eating properly and getting back into my exercise program.  Three polyps found in the colonoscopy — removed.  Next one is 5 years away.  Physical therapy and exercise have made it easier to operate my neck and shoulder with little or no pain.

Being olderly is a double-edged sword.  I’m thankful that I’m relatively wiser than I was in my youth and my decisions are more often than not, much better for a positive outcome with more desirable results.  On the other hand, the body just doesn’t respond like it used to…the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak.  Though heavier than I should be, I am ever thankful that I can still get around well.  Arthritis has a way of taking some things away, like working with my hands and my wife’s personal favorite, giving her a neck massage.  However, with a few modifications, I can still do many things around the house and in the yard…it just may take a bit longer.

Taking care of ourselves is more than just eating salads and walking around the neighborhood.  Have I ever mentioned that I don’t really like salads?  I’d rather eat cake; and cookies; and doughnuts; and cereal…  I haven’t been in Gold’s Gym down the street from my house–I’m not sure what I’ll find there but if it’s the same as when I was younger, I wouldn’t care for the aroma.  I’ve been to the YMCA — a nice place to visit but it wasn’t really, you know, me– a bunch of people of varying ages in funny clothes running on treadmills and lifting weights while watching television.  I can do that at home.  Besides, I like doing push ups and crunches where our furry kids can participate by licking my face to encourage me.

(Insert mental note here:)  As an olderly guy, I don’t like someone telling me what I should and should not eat.  I’m a grown man…if I want a peanut butter and jelly sandwich for supper, I’m gonna eat a peanut butter and jelly sandwich for supper– thanks, Earl.  Apple jelly.

There are a great deal of normal foods that I don’t care for, such as, barbecue ribs, potato salad, macaroni salad to name a few.  Since I left home almost 40 years ago, I have not eaten liver and onions, nor have I eaten okra; and, I don’t like grits.  I shouldn’t have to eat them if I don’t want to.  So, there.

I have the coolest wife.  When anyone asks her, “What’s wrong with him?”  She just smiles and says, “I’m not really sure but I know he doesn’t like mayonnaise.”   Now, she buys smaller pizza.  I still get four slices but they’re not as big.   😉

Yes, we must do more for ourselves than eat, drink, exercise and be merry.  I am truly blessed in everyday life.  I work daily to strengthen the Lord’s Spirit in my life, I have a wonderful wife to spend the remainder of my days; I have a job; sometimes I paint pictures or write stories as a creative outlet; occasionally, I clean in the garage; I help others when I can or am led to by the Spirit; I spend time with family, friends and other people even if it is just a phone call; and when I can, I go fishin’.  Going fishin’ is different than fishing.  Going fishin’ is special time I spend with God.  During that quiet time, He allows me some insight on my feelings, beliefs and the people and events in my life.  I get time to meditate and listen to His Spirit so that I may be better equipped to go through whatever it is I must endure.  Often, I see small things as big things and big things as insignificant.  His Word and Consultation balance me.  The olderly I get, the more balanced I’m becoming regardless of the number on the scales.  Sometimes, I actually catch fish.

Make some personal time with the Lord, our God, our Savior for yourself, as well as for others in your life.  You don’t have to be knee-to-chin deep in you know what to call on Him.  He is always there waiting for us to call His name. Put Him first in your life and let yourself be amazed.  I recommend it.

Jay 🙂

• Psalms 33:18 (NLT)

  But the lord watches over those who fear him, those who rely on his unfailing love.

• John 6:63 (NLT)

  The Spirit alone gives eternal life. Human effort accomplishes nothing. And the very words I have spoken to you are spirit and life.

• Matthew 15:11 (NLT)

  It’s not what goes into your mouth that defiles you; you are defiled by the words that come out of your mouth.”