A week ago I was lopsided. After two surgeries in my left eye, I could see into the distance (but not up close) from my left eye. The right eye required glasses for distance, but I could see close up if I held the book up to my nose. It became difficult to function. However, last week I had cataract surgery in my right eye. Start up the band: "I can see clearly now," at a distance.

It is truly amazing. Since I was 10 years old, the first thing I would do in the morning is reach for my glasses. Now I don't need to do that, unless I want to start my day reading.

Jimmy Cliff sings:
I can see clearly now the rain is gone.
I can see all obstacles in my way.
Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind.
It's gonna be a bright (bright)
bright (bright) sunshiny day.
It's gonna be a bright (bright)
bright (bright) sunshiny day.

I may be able to see clearly now, and yet I know that I won't see all of the obstacles in my way. I know that there will be dark clouds in my life. How do I live now and prepare for those dark days so that when they do come, I am able to handle them with grace?

I do that by trying to live healthfully in body, mind and spirit. I try to cultivate a mindful life. The anesthesiologist's assistant said that my blood pressure was like that of a teenager. And yet, I had trouble sleeping the night before surgery. I will continue to practice, practice, practice.

How do you live and practice for the inevitable dark clouds?

 

Lagniappe 

 

If you have gotten into a reggae mood, check out my friend Eric's band, Rebelution, and his song, Bright Side of Life.