LESSONS LEARNED

When people see me and ask the question, "Fred, how are you?" I usually respond by saying, "I'm below average but above ground."

I know many people have been concerned about my well being. I appreciate that. However, I don't want speculation about my health and worry about my life. My pancreatic cancer and the later bowel resection surgery were very serious and my prognosis dire. But... I'm doing fine. During my regular check up, my doctor said, "You look good." "Thank you," I said. "You shouldn't," was his reply. "How do you feel?" he asked. "I feel good," I responded. "You shouldn't," he said. Well, I don't know how I look but I know how I feel and whether I SHOULD look good or feel good is immaterial. The thing is, I feel good and that's all that matters.

My birthday on September 29th, was a great day. It marked another year. I figure I have been alive for 673,920 hours. I like being old. It has set me free. I like the person I have become. I am not going to live forever, but while I am still here, I will not waste time lamenting what could have been, or worrying about what will be. And I shall eat ice cream every single day!