A Change in Perspective

Deuteronomy 4:9 “But watch out! Be careful never to forget what you yourself have seen. Do not let these memories escape from your mind as long as you live!"

Life changed for me forever on August 8, 2014.  That day I was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. (PD)   I was 47, PD is for old people, or so I thought.  After the initial shock wore off, I decided that this disease was not going to define me.  I decided that God had a purpose behind this whole situation and I was going to find a way to honor Him through the whole situation.

One of the main changes I made in my life was a change in perspective.  Life, to me, WAS a series of events.  Days that led into weeks, that led into months, etc.  Now, life, to me, IS a vehicle for memories.  A laugh from my grandson Mason.  Broadcasting ball games with my son Tucker.  A dinner date with my daughter Tori.  Dinner and a show with my wife Tina.  A text from wonderful people who care about me.  A church service with a wonderful church family.  A snowy morning on Radio Hill.  Talking with student athletes before and after a game.  Interacting with wonderful coaches and players.  Visiting schools to see kids from church.  All of these events make up life and add to memories.

We all take pictures of important events.  Newborn babies, graduation, prom, homecoming, Senior Night, birthday parties, weddings, etc.  Why?  To remember.  They add to our memories.  But life is an important event.  The people we come in contact with daily are important too.  Someone knew this because they invented a vehicle for us to share those memories.  It's called Instagram.  Think about it, IG is a way for us to share our memories with others.  Daily memories.  A history of our lives in pictures.

Since my diagnosis I have been taking pictures like crazy.  One person dear to me told my I had a strong "selfie game" and she was right!  Why?  Memories.  I don't want to forget those closest to me.  So I take pictures with them for that purpose.  So if you are out and about and I ask you for a "selfie" please know why.  Sometimes I am reluctant to ask because I am not sure of your feelings about taking  a pic with an old codger!  I realize it could be embarrassing.  So if you see me out and about, ask me for a pic.  I will never say no to that request.  I want to preserve as many memories as possible.  

My change in perspective has given me a wonderful new outlook on life.  I challenge you to not see life as a day at school, a week of testing, but as a life of memories.  God bless and have a wonderful day!!