Life is Precious

I was going to post about my newest endeavor, Salsa Dancing, and do a piece about enjoying variety in life, but in light of some tragic circumstances, I will modify the content, and save that one for another day. Without disclosing my exact age, suffice it to say I am old enough to know better and young enough to still have a damn good time in life. Most of my friends are married with children, but not at that point where they are too old to get down and party. But in a tragic turn of events, I have had 2 deaths among my friends my age. Although I do not have all the details at this time, from what I gather, BOTH were suicides! I have read studies that people in their 20's are susceptible to this, due to trying to figure things out, etc, but I will disclose that both individuals were out of their 20's. One was a long time friend whom I met shortly after college. He had a wife and daughter, but did recently lose his job. However, I thought they were well on their way to finding new jobs and moving back to San Diego (which I was excited about since I was looking forward to having new playmates). The other was more of an acquaintance whom, I must confess, I learned more about her recent life on facebook. The scary part is that she had the exact same birth date as me. I am not superstitious, but it most definitely caused me to reflect on my mortality. This woman was a well liked, successful doctor with 2 infant children. What a tragedy!

I have started this blog to discuss healthy living practices, and I must say it has become somewhat of an obsession. I work out at least 5 days a week, even if that work out is Salsa Dance class or a hike with friends. I limit my drinking and try to eat reasonably. But one thing that is crucial for a healthy mind-body-spirit connection, is to find joy in everything you do. I initially stated that I want to incorporate many of my late father's life principles into this blog and he had a saying "Laugh and Live" which I think is a vital component for living the best life possible. Laughter really is the best medicine. I must disclose that my father was 91 when he passed away. Old enough to have been my great grandfather, since I was only 20 at the time. Unusual yes, but also extraordinary. A story I can share that is the most life affirming possible is that when he was in his 80's, he was in a terrible car accident. I remember vividly my mother bringing home his blood stained white undershirt and the fear I felt wondering how my Daddy was. Not many men get the opportunity to have children into their 70's and my father knew he had something to live for. Against incredible odds (remember, the body heals more slowly at an advanced age) my father survived. What was told to me after the fact was that the doctor, in 20 years of practicing medicine, had never seen anyone with such a positive attitude and will to live. And I was equally blessed because my father was with me for 20 great years. But my Dad saw the beauty and joy in everything. He did not take his blessings for granted. He was perhaps the healthiest eater I know, yet never let it hinder his zest for life and having fun. Everything was done in moderation, but like many modern "diet" principles, we never deprived ourselves of any one food or experience. It was a whole body concept. When all you do is in balance you can't help but be healthier. I know this because I lived it. My brother and I were rarely sick, and lived a full, rich childhood. I have both my parents to thank for that. Although I have no children of my own, one day I hope to pass this on to my future children, or to those around me who are open to life and the everyday joys. Peace, love, health and happiness.