I've recently had some life altering experiences that I feel are pertinent for me to put into words. Life is tough, challenging, demanding. Often we feel the pressure of trying to impress all those around us we forget what is important in life. We get caught up "trying to be the best" and not simply just trying to the best WE can be. Life is about living, not focusing on tomorrow or on yesterdays mistakes but simply living now! This past 3 months has been rough for me. I've been down and frankly maybe experienced a little depression. I was so caught up with school/work I forgot what made me happy and smile.
This past Sunday I went out for a bike ride, came home and passed out. I hit my head on the tile in the bathroom so hard it caused me to have a severe concussion and multiple seizures. I spent all of Sunday in and out of consciousness. I spent the next couple days in the hospital while I had multiple tests done on my body. The doctor sent me home Tuesday with a basic diagnosis of a weak heart. I currently have to wear a heart monitor and make sure that I listen to my body.
While many of you may read this and think it's not a big deal I firmly believe that I made it through with the help of Angels. Let me tell you about some of them:
The first and most important Angel is and was Jessie. She is my rock, my foundation, my iron rod. She was there for me throughout the whole process and continually gives me a reason to smile and be happy everyday. So often we get mad and upset at the people that care about us the most, when in actuality when push came to shove they are the ones that would and will be there for us. Jessie was right by my side throughout this whole process. When things were the worst and I thought I might not make it she was right there for me! Thank you for everything Jessie, I love you!
My second Angel is my little girl, Makynli. Nothing in this whole world brings more joy and happiness to me than my little girl. She is the most beautiful thing I've ever seen and when I came home I don't know if she understands fully what is going on but when I came home she gave me a great big hug and kiss! Thank you Makynli, I love you!
My parents are angels! When I was a very young little boy I was in the hospital and stopped breathing, I flat lined and almost died. There were there for me then and they were there for me again. While I was unconsciousness in the bathroom, Jessie called my dad and he was hear without any questions. They remained in the hospital with me as well. I know that my parents care about and love me and that's all I can ask! Thank you mom and dad, I love you!
Two of my very best friends were there with me throughout much of my stay. My little bro and Nate (Who I considered my brother as well). I am so grateful for both of them, I means so much that both of you care enough to take time out of your busy days to be with me. Thank you Colton and Nate, I love you!
My sister and brother in law are angels! My sister is the best sister in the whole world! My brother in law are going through the same things, trying to move on with our lives get jobs and get into schools and it's not easy. Bronson is incredible! He's smart, loves sports, loves my sister and Jaxon. Remember to not sweat the small stuff B. Jessie and I support you no matter what you end up doing. Wherever you end up the company that gets you will be lucky to have you! Thank you Bronson, Jaelyn, and Jaxon, I love you!
My in laws are the best! Moving into a different family can be so hard. I was raised differently than my wife and therefore having different traditions, ways of doing things, ect. I am and always will be the only son in law, so I believe that we are all learning together how things work out. They've been so great to me, I can't ask for anything more. We are so critical of those closest to us that we forget what they truly do. I was told that when I was raising Makynli the best thing I could do was love her. My in laws have done that for me, they've accepted me and brought me into their family, I can't ask for anymore than that. My father-in-law knew that we couldn't pay our bills with this new medical bill and gave us money, I consider them angels. Thank you Brent and Dwan, I love you!
Grandparents are angels! Jessie and I currently live with my G & G Smith. They let us live the their basement while we are saving for medical school. That was such a generous offer. They are the best! My G & G Daw are so amazing! They are always there to sneak me a $20 or little things like that that do not go unrecognized. My new and awesome G & G Thompson! They are there to watch Makynli and other little things that help Jessie and I out. I love you grandparents!
On our way out of the hospital an anonymous donor had paid the remainder of our medical bill. I am in tears thinking about this, they don't realize how much that meant to us. That person is an angel.
I can go on all day listing people and explaining why they are important. I have the best family in the world and have realized that is what is truly important in life. I may have a weak heart but I will do what I can to be an angel to others. Life isn't about how hard you can hit but rather how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward, how much you can take and keep moving forward. I know it took this life altering experience for me to understand this but I'm glad I did. Remember that living isn't life but LIFE IS LIVING! Try new things, tell those closest to you that you love them, don't put things off till tomorrow. Take time to sit down and think about your angels! Everyone has them, WHO ARE YOURS!
