View from my last home - Kensington, CA
As I sit home on Thanksgiving day listening to Verdi Requiem, I look back at those few years (2002-2006) I was in a classical chorus where we performed this piece. I realized despite some major setbacks over this past year, I am in a much better place now than I was back then.
A few things I’m thankful for:
- No longer living in the Bay Area – I was born and raised in the Bay (Oakland, CA to be exact) and it wasn’t until I moved to Portland that I realized just how uncompromising that whole area is to me. If you cant afford an overpriced home to buy or rent, you’re living in a not so great, crime ridden area. My experience was pretty black and white. I’m thankful I was able to live in a breathtakingly beautiful neighborhood during my last few years there, but it was getting difficult to afford it – especially on disability. The Bay Area has it good points, but unless you are “set” (ie. purchased a home 10+ years ago, or have a really good salary), you’re out of luck. I will enjoy visiting family who’s still in the area though. Fortunately for them, they are set.
- Fitness – Going though a multiple sclerosis exacerbation back in the early spring had left me weak and out of shape. Because I wasn’t very active (not by choice), I lost muscle tone and stamina. I recently joined a gym in my neighborhood and go there four days a week now. I haven’t feel this good in almost a year!
- My sister – I have a half sister that wasn’t a part of my life until recently. She’s my father’s daughter and I met her for the first time when I was fourteen. I saw her one other time ten years ago when I got married and didn’t see or speak to her after that until recently before I moved. Its a shame because she never lived more than a few miles away from me. Ironically, we are closer than ever now despite being hundreds of miles apart. We talk on the phone at least every week, text message often and send each other small gifts and cards. There are eleven years between us (she older), but it doesn’t feel that way at all. I look forward to seeing her again when she comes to visit us in a few weeks.
I don’t think these thoughts of have come to mind had I not put on the music that reminded me of my recent past which is a direct contrast to life now.
I couldn’t agree more about how overpriced the Bay Area is.
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Carla
Reply:
November 28th, 2009 at 5:14 pm
@Vered – That is one of the major downsides for me….
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Carla,
Beautiful message…and especially about your connection with your half sister – how awesome!! I’m thankful I know you…you are a sweet and kind person…
Lance´s last blog ..Exposed
[Reply]
Carla
Reply:
November 28th, 2009 at 5:15 pm
@Lance – I’m so thankful to know you too. I have never known anyone who shares the same level of joie de vive as you!
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Oftentimes, when we’re beleaguered with adversities, we forget our blessings. It does feel great to be grateful of our blessings than to wallow in our miseries; after all, we chose what we want to think.
Walter´s last blog ..Success eludes mediocrity
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