I took a group counselling course with an instructor who used to remind the class constantly how everything was “a metaphor for your whole life.”  That included the course itself. 

A few mornings ago, as I was struggling with my new “medical alert” bracelet for my diabetes (had to get one now that I’m on insulin), I couldn’t help but think how that was also “a metaphor for my whole life.”  Try as I might, I just couldn’t get that darn bracelet on by myself.  I finally relented and asked my husband to help me.  I soon saw the bracelet as a metaphor for my life with diabetes.  I try and try on my own, but I just can’t do it alone.  I struggle in vain until it is finally apparent even to me (did I mention that stubbornness thing?) that I must ask for help. 

I have slowly come to accept that needing and asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of courage.  That reaching out is a risk that reaps immeasurable rewards.  Distance may be safe but it is also empty.  And that while letting people in is scary, it is the only way to lead a life full of love. 

You know how people always tell you that you need to experience the bad to appreciate the good?  I feel I am living that experience right now. 

I have been wanting to go back to some kind of paid work for several months now.  My first choice was a part-time job (doing something that I love) so I could balance our family life with my work.  Well, that was proving very difficult to find.  So, on a bit of a whim I took a part-time job at a local place that I shop. 

Let’s just say that the experience propelled me to get off my hiney and get a “real” job.  After one evening of floor mopping (I know, I know) I got down to some serious business of firing off my resume.  Actually, when they initially told me I was going to be mopping the floor I was like, “Can I phone my husband to come in and do it for me?  He’s much better at floors than I am.”

 So now, a few months later and in a “real” job, I am thanking my lucky stars.  I’m actually doing a job related to my background, I’m working with amazing people, and guess what?  they’re totally into food.  Every day I’ve been there we’ve had some sort of shared eating experience.  There’s nothing like bonding with people while you have a mouth full of food (sounds slightly suggestive doesn’t it?)

So yes, sometimes crap is good for you.