Five years ago, we all went through hell in my family as my Dad died of brain cancer. Shortly thereafter, three of my closest family members died. Then, three years ago, I received news that I had a rare condition (not one I want to write of here today, but suffice it to say I explore it in my poems these days) which changed the dreams of my wife and I forever. My heart broke, and I became very ill with esophagitis, and depression. Fortunately, my wife assembled a crack medical team, and after two years of treatment or so, I am able to work again, and write, and teach, and enjoy most things I used to. True, there's no more caffeine, chocolate, alcohol, or orange juice in my diet, but I found replacements for those, and forged ahead.
At 45, I guess I once wanted other things - maybe a large family, maybe more literary success. The last few years allowed me to mellow, and yes, mature. I now realise a few things. Be glad for whatever life throws your way, and don't expect any favours from fate. And - anyone who writes poems for anything other than love of the art is barking up the wrong hat-stand.
I am turning in my PhD dissertation in the next few months. I have a job I enjoy. A fantastic partner. A faith that is stuttering back to life in fits and starts. Spotify to bring a million songs. Great friends and contacts all over the world. And several poetry collections on the way, in my native Canada.
In my darkest hours, about 18 months ago, I never imagined that I'd ever have two poems in Poetry magazine. That I'd be jogging in the sunlight. That I'd ever be happy again.
That's being blessed.
Comments
Here's to a more happy and contented next five years.
Many Happy Returns! Pleased to hear that you're on the mend and can still do most of the things that you used to.
Best wishes from Simon & Rusty