On the Bright Side

Written by Mike on March 9th, 2010

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“Always look on the bright side of life.”

That’s the song Eric Idle sang at the end of Monty Python’s Life of Brian, as they were all hanging on crosses, awaiting death.  It’s hard to imagine being able to see a bright side in that situation.  I mean, to be facing a very slow, painful death on a cross, where would be the bright side in that? What would one be thankful for?

It’s often hard to see the bright side of things when dealing with any health condition. With what I’ve been through over the last year or so, after being diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes and Congestive Heart Failure, among other health problems, I can say that with a great deal of certainty. And to say that I’m really thankful for either of those is questionable at best on some days.

Despite all the difficulties, though, I can honestly say there is a bright side to all of it, and there are many things for which I am thankful.

On the bright side, I’m still Alive! That’s something for which I am definitely thankful.  And despite some evidence to the contrary, I’m actually in a lot better shape now than I was this time last year.  The strength of my heart is up to 42%, from 35%, the A1c I had a few months back was a 6.0, I’ve lost 40 lbs., etc… I could go on forever, but I won’t.

For me, the good results that I’ve seen from my treatment efforts have made it easier to see the bright side of things.  Feeling the strength returning, the pounds shedding, and the numbers lowering, make it so much easier to keep up with the 1,500 calorie diet, the constant blood glucose checks, and the exercise routine. And a spoonful of sweet victories certainly make the 20+ pills that I take everyday go down a lot easier.

If there is one thing that has made seeing the bright side a little easier over the last year, it’s the friendships that I’ve made with other members of the Diabetic Online Community (DOC).  The love and support that is shared throughout the DOC is something for which I am always thankful.

And last but not least, I have to give a shout out to George Simmons over at Ninjabetic – The B.A.D Blog.  His post titled “Sometimes” was the inspiration for my post today.  So, be sure to check it out.

For your enjoyment, here’s a Youtube video of the song/movie referenced above.