Solo Survivor

On the bright side…

I continue to be a prisoner in my state – or should I simply say, I just continue to be, along with millions of others. We have been for the last 2+ years. Our premier keeps shifting the goal posts, ’all with good reason‘, of course, and the majority of the state are willing to let him. But some of the rules are simply immoral. Even though our borders will supposedly be open in a couple of weeks, the conditions for entry are still quite stiff.

There is a mask mandate, which pretty much keeps me from going anywhere that requires me to be indoors. So the only time I leave the house these days, is to visit someone at home or in a park.

But I have decided to look on the bright side. I have so much to be thankful for. Instead of going shopping, I can place an order and it gets delivered. Easy as. I avoid crowds, screaming kids, queues and still get what I need. Plus I am not tempted to buy extras that catch my eye as I walk the aisles so I am saving money.

I have beautiful deck where I can sit and work early in the morning before it heats up. My house is air-conditioned so I keep cool during the current heat wave. I can go and watch the sunset at the beach 5 minutes away, no mask required. I am not living in fear like I was 5 years ago.

I have a friend who comes every Friday morning to write. We have coffee and raisin toast and we write – some days more than others. She brings her teenage son and he works in my garden, for a fee of course, and we’re all happy. Now I can enjoy my back yard even more because it is looking good and it is being weeded regularly.

I have started a veggie garden and have been eating spinach, lettuce, capsicum and tomatoes and even beans from the garden. So good. My office window overlooks the front garden and it’s a peaceful view. I open the shutters every day and work with natural light not neon lighting.

I have just walled in my carport and result is so good. The builder was able to match the bricks and you would never guess it was not part of the original construction. So I’m getting things done that I have been putting off for ages and it feels good.

I have just walled in my carport and result is so good. The builder was able to match the bricks and you would never guess it was not part of the original construction. So I’m getting things done that I have been putting off for ages and it feels good.

Do I like that I can no longer see my therapist face to face? No I don’t, but there is FaceTime or zoom if I need it. My life is simpler and less demanding. I have all I need to be well and happy. I am finding new ways to connect and stay in contact. I have discovered some awesome podcasts, and have a decent pile of books to read. I know some are worried I might become isolated again, but I am trying to make sure I don’t. And to be honest, I am less worried. I am comfortable with my own company.

All things considered, I have a really good life. I am safe, have shelter, food and friends. I still have a job, when so many have lost theirs. I am well physically and mentally. We  can always find things in our day to be grateful for. When we practice gratitude, our focus shifts and our mood changes. I have learnt how much less negative I am when I am being thankful for the little things and some not so little things.

3 Comments

  1. Christine

    Always good to hear you being positive Su. I know you are truly grateful for all you have. You have indeed come a very long way on a very difficult journey. I feel very grateful for your friendship and support. Yes when we practice gratitude our focus certainly changes. We do miss you at church but understand your situation. Keep well.

    Reply
  2. Sharon

    Su you are sounding my so positive is still mm me to see. Great reading your posts and seeing the world through your eyes. You go girl and carry on being the person you were created to be. Looked at some old photos the other day and can you believe it this year 20 years ago I last saw you in Melbourne when I came over for the Masters games. That was so long ago. But I remember you showing me some of the sights. Keep well my friend and carry on as you are. Xx Sharon

    Reply
  3. Marlize Venter

    I love this piece, thank you once again for being part of our lives. We are equally grateful that we get to spend time with you on a weekly basis.

    Reply

Leave a Reply to Christine Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *