As I Reflect on the Past Month…

I’ve spent the last month recovering from non-cancerous dermatological (not plastic) surgery at my “she-pad” in DC (as my friends call it). There were many hurdles and not so good things in the past 90 days— my non-speedy recovery, a truly awful date with man with a misogynistic temperament despite my having high hopes, meanness in politics and beyond, failing health of a family member, radio silence from several someones who should have been responsive. That’s just the starter list.

But….

There have been remarkable positives. In our crazy world, these positives are worth recognizing and heralding and highlighting. Why? Because we should acknowledge, savor and reward the good things. They matter. They improve our health, both physically and mentally. They enable us to move forward with hope and with decency and with respect.

Here’s a starter list.

I had remarkable healthcare providers. The medical professionals at Integrated Dermatology of 19th Street (not to be confused with Integrated Dermatology of K Street and the names are too close) treated me with care and respect. They were consummate professionals but what mattered is that they exhibited compassion. Truly. They weren’t just pleasant (they were that); they were understanding. They were in the moment. They were there for me. Bravo and brava to Drs. S and D and their health provider staff members, Reid and Chris.

I have wonderful, supportive, giving friends. Each and everyone of them were gracious and warm and welcoming. They were kind and available and supportive. How lucky am I to have such friends both near and far? A special thank you to Ed and Liz and Sakina and Pat and Carol and Madelaine and Chris and Sandra and Kersten and Nancy and Joy and Jill and Lisa and Beverly and Betty.

If I missed someone, my bad.

And my family deserves thanks too. There’s my sister Nancy, who is also a true friend. There’s Nicky and Lanella who came to visit in the midst of things. There’s Zack, who called with regularity.

I also had the release of my new new book (co-authored by Ed KS Wang), and I feel real proud regarding this accomplishment; add to that the fact that the ebook version jumps out for its color and its visual presentation. I did art (and had art accepted into various shows and a non-profit auction). And, for an untaught artist, I feel like I am learning and improving. See the piece above and at the end of this post. And speaking of posts, I have been blogging galore. And my readership expands. I appreciate all my readers.

These just described plusses (and there are others) enable me to move forward with hope. I am reminded of the oft ascribed quote that I am varying here: Service, decency and kindness are the rent we pay to live on this precious earth. I experienced all three. Words of thanks are not enough.