From Brian: 04/18/08 9:15 a.m.-- Met with the Dr's this morning. They are not wanting to operate on Alex's second abscess. They are hopeful that the antibiotics will do there job. The plan is to wait a few days and retest his blood count. He is very sore and tired today. The staff was in our room what seemed like 100 times last night. He is resting comfortably watching blades of Glory. Nothing planed for the day. Hopefully we can get the boy some rest. We are going to try and get Alex out of the bunk today. He doesn’t feel like he will be able to get up today..
We will try our best…….
Everyone have a great day!
___*UPDATE*___
From Bri: 04/18/08 7:48 p.m.-- Well all and all today was a good day. Alex is very sore. His abdomen is very sensitive. ….but hey who’s wouldn’t. They installed a three way valve in Alex’s drain. They back flushed it to make sure it doesn’t clog. He has been watching movies …playing guitar hero and building sculptors out of plado. Been tiring to keep him occupied. We have had a lot of laughs today. Tried to get up today but was unable to straighten up. Dr’s are going to retest his white blood count on Monday. So it is just a waiting game for now.
We learned something yesterday that really pisses me off. When they install a drain it has a wire attached to a string that goes up the tube. The reason is the tube is a coil like a piggy’s tail with holes in it to absorb infection. The way to remove the drain is u cut the tube which takes tension off string and wire. That way it comes out straight with no tension on it. Well………..one of the worst things Alex has gone through is when they pulled his drain out in Astoria. They never cut the tube. They just grabbed it and jerked it out of him. Alex hit the roof. The pain that was supposed to last 5 seconds never went away. That’s when all the problems seemed to progress. I told the Dr up here how they removed it and he grimaced. He said that would be like pulling the tube out with a rock attached to it. Nice! Alex is really nervous about the removal. I can imagine after the first one. I will never get anything major done at that hospital again. I will rent a helicopter and fly to Portland if I have to.
Alex is currently working on his guitar hero skills. I do fear that he is enjoying bossing dad around a little too much…LoL We love u All…..
From me: I support that thought completely... I am SO NOT a fan of Columbia Memorial!! Never have been and never will be. [No offense, Dana! ;)]
Friday, April 18, 2008
Good News for Alex
From Bri: 04/17/08 9:05 p.m.-- Well Alex had his procedure this afternoon. It went really well. They installed a drain tube right through his abdomen right below his belly button. He had a huge amount of fluid drained by the surgeons. They could not believe how much was in there. Its been several hours since surgery and his bag has so much in it its amazing. No wonder he was so sick. They don't believe that his to abscesses are attached. The plan is to wait till his drain quits oozing. Then retest his blood count.
On the lighter side Alex was hilarious when they gave him the Anastasia. He was pretending he was on a rollercoaster. He was also pretending his heart rate monitor was a light saber. I was laughing so hard.
After the surgery he woke up in lots of pain. After some meds he was able to tolerate the pain. He quickly went to bathroom after which is a good thing. Going to talk to Dr's at 600am. They are going to look at some pictures tonight. They will have a clearer idea in am. Was told that if his drain dries up and his count goes down. He will be able to go home Sunday or Monday. That would be awesome! I will keep all informed. Thanks for all the support. I promise I will blog more in Am when I have a clear picture.
On the lighter side Alex was hilarious when they gave him the Anastasia. He was pretending he was on a rollercoaster. He was also pretending his heart rate monitor was a light saber. I was laughing so hard.
After the surgery he woke up in lots of pain. After some meds he was able to tolerate the pain. He quickly went to bathroom after which is a good thing. Going to talk to Dr's at 600am. They are going to look at some pictures tonight. They will have a clearer idea in am. Was told that if his drain dries up and his count goes down. He will be able to go home Sunday or Monday. That would be awesome! I will keep all informed. Thanks for all the support. I promise I will blog more in Am when I have a clear picture.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Concensus in on Alex
From Brian: 04/17/08 9:14 a.m.-- Good morning everyone!
The Dr's have decided to go ahead with the less intrusive procedure. The consciences among the board this morning is that the two are not connected. They are still going to go after the one in his abdomen. The hope is that with less infection his body he will be able to heal the other with antibiotics. If after a couple days its still there……Then we will deal with it then(think positive). It involves a very invasive procedure. While he is under today they are thinking about draining his scrotum. Not for sure though. Dr's really do not want to subject his body to the possibility of more infection. His testicle swelling has slightly gone down. If it was a 20 story building he is down to the 16th floor.
Still a long way from the lobby!
So last night Alex felt great. On of two things either he was feeling a little better or the meds finally did there job. I think it was a combination of both. Him and I took a long walk. Had to stop him for fear of the pain he might feel later. He was laughing and joking around. We played guitar hero and had a good time. Around 10 we decided to go on a little adventure. Lets just say both him and I needed to get out of his room. We loaded him up in a wheel chair and took off. The hospital here at night is like a ghost town. So we rode the elevator to several different floors. We also speed tested his wheel chair running down the halls. After many donuts in his wheel chair. We got something to drink in the cafeteria. Then back to the room. He was tired and fell asleep fast. Around 2 he woke up screaming but pain didn't last long.
Today he is feeling pretty good. He is on a no food and drink again. He is eating his breakfast in his Iv this morning. Will keep posted.
Keep up the faith! We are feeling it!
The Dr's have decided to go ahead with the less intrusive procedure. The consciences among the board this morning is that the two are not connected. They are still going to go after the one in his abdomen. The hope is that with less infection his body he will be able to heal the other with antibiotics. If after a couple days its still there……Then we will deal with it then(think positive). It involves a very invasive procedure. While he is under today they are thinking about draining his scrotum. Not for sure though. Dr's really do not want to subject his body to the possibility of more infection. His testicle swelling has slightly gone down. If it was a 20 story building he is down to the 16th floor.
Still a long way from the lobby!
So last night Alex felt great. On of two things either he was feeling a little better or the meds finally did there job. I think it was a combination of both. Him and I took a long walk. Had to stop him for fear of the pain he might feel later. He was laughing and joking around. We played guitar hero and had a good time. Around 10 we decided to go on a little adventure. Lets just say both him and I needed to get out of his room. We loaded him up in a wheel chair and took off. The hospital here at night is like a ghost town. So we rode the elevator to several different floors. We also speed tested his wheel chair running down the halls. After many donuts in his wheel chair. We got something to drink in the cafeteria. Then back to the room. He was tired and fell asleep fast. Around 2 he woke up screaming but pain didn't last long.
Today he is feeling pretty good. He is on a no food and drink again. He is eating his breakfast in his Iv this morning. Will keep posted.
Keep up the faith! We are feeling it!
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Update: Alex & another surgery
From Bri: 04/16/08 4:10 p.m.-- Latest news on Alex. Tina Alex and I just met with Dr to discuss Alex's case. So Alex's has two abscesses That are rather Large. His surgery is scheduled for 2:30pm tomorrow(but could be changed). They are going to insert a drain into the abscess using Ct. There is only one access that they can get to with the ct. The other is in a place where they would be unable to get to with out serious risk. There is a slight chance that the two abscesses might be connected. Tomorrow morning Dr's are going to meet to discuss his case in front of a team of Dr's. We are hoping for the ct which is far less intrusive. If not he will have to go into surgery so they can see layer by layer as they go in.
We really need for them to be connected………
Today Alex's meds have been changed from morphine to an oral medication. His pain seems to be in check. He woke up in a great mood. His mind seems to be much clearer today. He had a teacher come to his room to help him work on math. He really enjoyed this. After We loaded him up in a wheel chair and took him down to play bingo. The volunteers her run a bingo game on Wednesdays for the patents. They have great prizes for the kids and everyone is a winner. They broadcast the bingo game threw the TV so Ever child can play. Kids from their rooms call in when they get bingo. Alex enjoyed this. I believe it was nice for him to just get him out of the room. It took a little maneuvering (mom was having a hard time keeping up with his Iv stand). Lets all think positive and keep the prayers coming.
We want our boy healthy!
From me: PRAYERS UP!!
We really need for them to be connected………
Today Alex's meds have been changed from morphine to an oral medication. His pain seems to be in check. He woke up in a great mood. His mind seems to be much clearer today. He had a teacher come to his room to help him work on math. He really enjoyed this. After We loaded him up in a wheel chair and took him down to play bingo. The volunteers her run a bingo game on Wednesdays for the patents. They have great prizes for the kids and everyone is a winner. They broadcast the bingo game threw the TV so Ever child can play. Kids from their rooms call in when they get bingo. Alex enjoyed this. I believe it was nice for him to just get him out of the room. It took a little maneuvering (mom was having a hard time keeping up with his Iv stand). Lets all think positive and keep the prayers coming.
We want our boy healthy!
From me: PRAYERS UP!!
New Update on Alex
From Brian: 04/16/08 6:45 a.m.-- Well its a new day. I just got the results from Alex's ct scan. There is a reason for all this madness. He has two abscess(pockets of pus). One in his abdomen and one next to his rectum. The course of action to relive this is uncertain right now. My understanding is that they might be able to use a machine similar to the ct machine .It will use computer imaging to insert a drain where needed. This is supposed to be less invasive than full on surgery. Radiology is looking at ct to see if process is possible. As far as his testicles go the best description I can use to describe the appearance is ANGRY. Still extremely swollen and sensitive. Hopeful if he can get his abdomen drained we will start seeing some relief there also.
Last night his pain was tolerable. He slept pretty good. He is currently sawing logs. He wasn't fully awake this morning to hear the Dr's talk. I'm sure when he wakes up he will have 100 and one questions. I know one of the first ones will be "do I have to drink that stuff again?" I sure hope not. If he does he is liable to throw something at me. We hope everyone has a great day. Today is our day….I can feel it! I know you all have Alex in your thoughts. It means more than you know….We love you all……..
Last night his pain was tolerable. He slept pretty good. He is currently sawing logs. He wasn't fully awake this morning to hear the Dr's talk. I'm sure when he wakes up he will have 100 and one questions. I know one of the first ones will be "do I have to drink that stuff again?" I sure hope not. If he does he is liable to throw something at me. We hope everyone has a great day. Today is our day….I can feel it! I know you all have Alex in your thoughts. It means more than you know….We love you all……..
Rest In Peace, Gary
I'd like to ask everyone to please be praying for my friends, Katrina & Wendy, who's dad passed away this past Saturday after a difficult battle with cancer. They also lost their grandfather, their father's father, suddenly on the 2nd. It has been a trying time and a whirlwind of emotions for their family. Wendy gave birth to her first child, Jakob, on St. Patrick's Day, and her dad was ab;e to be there, and hold his first & only grandchild. This was a treasured moment, I know, but also bittersweet. Please keep them all in your prayers during this difficult time.
Rest In Peace, Gary.
I love you, Kat,... (((HUGS)))
Rest In Peace, Gary.
I love you, Kat,... (((HUGS)))
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
The Latest Update on Alex
From Bri: 04/15/08 9:42 p.m.--Well another day in the books. Today was a very trying day for both Alex and I. Poor guy had a fight with a fever and pain today. Things were a struggle. First his iv stopped working right when the surgeons came to look at his bandage. So he had a bandage change with no morphine. I refused to remove his bandage. Was not going to subject him to pain directly from me. He got through it ......but were some rough moments.
Iv team showed up shortly after the bandage change. Alex has had so many iv's. Since we have been in the hospital no one has got it on the 1st try. So today they missed 3 times got the 4. I was ready to come unglued. So by the time it came to drink his contrast meds we were in for a fight. He wanted no part. He was mentally tired. With some persuasion from dad he was able to get most of it drank. After he got 3/4 done. It was tiring to come back up. He fought back the urge to vomit until the nurse could give him anti nausea medicine. For the next several hrs we waited to get the ct scan. The scan is done and all we have to do is wait for results. Tomorrow we are excited cause mom is coming. I will keep everyone updated as much as I can.
Thanks for all the calls and prayers!
From me: For the life of me, I cannot comprehend why the staff wouldn't wait for the IV team to get there & re-establish his line. From everything Brian has described, poor Alex suffers enough even WITH the morphine so why in the world would the hospital put this child through that excrutiation WITHOUT pain medication??? My heart is just aching for this boy! Please, everybody, keep up the prayers. (((hugs)))
Iv team showed up shortly after the bandage change. Alex has had so many iv's. Since we have been in the hospital no one has got it on the 1st try. So today they missed 3 times got the 4. I was ready to come unglued. So by the time it came to drink his contrast meds we were in for a fight. He wanted no part. He was mentally tired. With some persuasion from dad he was able to get most of it drank. After he got 3/4 done. It was tiring to come back up. He fought back the urge to vomit until the nurse could give him anti nausea medicine. For the next several hrs we waited to get the ct scan. The scan is done and all we have to do is wait for results. Tomorrow we are excited cause mom is coming. I will keep everyone updated as much as I can.
Thanks for all the calls and prayers!
From me: For the life of me, I cannot comprehend why the staff wouldn't wait for the IV team to get there & re-establish his line. From everything Brian has described, poor Alex suffers enough even WITH the morphine so why in the world would the hospital put this child through that excrutiation WITHOUT pain medication??? My heart is just aching for this boy! Please, everybody, keep up the prayers. (((hugs)))
Alex Needs Your Prayers!
From Bri: 04/15/08 4:00 p.m.-- The results of Alex's white blood count came back bad. Shortly after he came down with a fever. Dr's have decided to give him another ct scan this afternoon. Doing the Ct they have to use a contrast solution. Alex says the solution is like drinking snot. He asked the Dr if there was a pill or another way he could take it. Dr said they could give it to him through his rectum. Alex said lets do it that way. I was shocked..but at this point i don't blame him. As dr was getting ready to leave Alex says "excuse me.....I think I would rather drink the stuff". So how bad must that stuff taste to contemplate getting it rectally.
From me: I don't know what to say, I feel grief stricken for this poor, sweet boy. This is such a tremendous struggle. I can't imagine an adult enduring this as well as this boy is. This child. Please pray for my friend's son... Send out all the positive energy you can to Alex, and to his family so that they can feel the love. Lift them up in prayer! I will continue to pass along updates as Brian posts them.
From me: I don't know what to say, I feel grief stricken for this poor, sweet boy. This is such a tremendous struggle. I can't imagine an adult enduring this as well as this boy is. This child. Please pray for my friend's son... Send out all the positive energy you can to Alex, and to his family so that they can feel the love. Lift them up in prayer! I will continue to pass along updates as Brian posts them.
Update on Alex
From Brian: 04/15/08 9:47 a.m.-- As u all know this has been quite the ordeal. We have been tackling one obstacle after another head on. Well last night they put one in front of us yet again. They decided that I was to Start changing Alex's dressing. After yesterday morning and all the pain the dressing change caused neither one of us was very excited. Alex was freaked out at the idea of dad getting anywhere near his appendix incision. Honestly I was not excited either. The bandage change went ok. It is a painful thing. His incision is stuffed with gauze. Every time its pulled out it sticks and hurts. I didn't like having to hurt him. He was mad at me, but forgave me quickly. We now have to change his stuffing 2 times a day.
Last night was the first night Alex did not have a fever. His pain was manageable also. He slept as good as possible. They come in every 2 hr and wake him up to check his vitals and give him meds. He was extremely irritable last night (Who can blame him). At on point I had to give him meds he came uncorked and started yelling at me. Which was shocking to me cause that is not Alex's nature. I asked him about it this morning and he had no recollection.
Today his stomach has been cramping. He is uncomfortable. They took blood at 6am to check his blood count. Have not got the results yet…..but lets keep fingers crossed! Just so everyone knows despite everything going on with him Alex is still Alex. He laughs and smiles often. Can't laugh to hard though. He has all kinds of stuff around him and keeps his hands busy. Today we might go down and work on some math. They have a classroom with 2 teachers here. He is very worried about his school work (Brandon if you are reading this take notes from your little bro).
We hope everyone has a great day! Thanks for thinking of Us….
From me: Bri also posted some pictures today,... and I have to say, just at the few I saw, Alex is one tough, young man!! This little guy is going through so much. He is getting awesome support from his dad, and anyone who has ever cared for someone in the hospital like this knows how emotionally & physically draining it is, especially when it's your children, so please remember Brian (& Tina! A mother's heart is a fragile thing!) and pray for their strength & well-being through all of this, too. Keep those prayers going strong, people!! (((HUGS)))
Last night was the first night Alex did not have a fever. His pain was manageable also. He slept as good as possible. They come in every 2 hr and wake him up to check his vitals and give him meds. He was extremely irritable last night (Who can blame him). At on point I had to give him meds he came uncorked and started yelling at me. Which was shocking to me cause that is not Alex's nature. I asked him about it this morning and he had no recollection.
Today his stomach has been cramping. He is uncomfortable. They took blood at 6am to check his blood count. Have not got the results yet…..but lets keep fingers crossed! Just so everyone knows despite everything going on with him Alex is still Alex. He laughs and smiles often. Can't laugh to hard though. He has all kinds of stuff around him and keeps his hands busy. Today we might go down and work on some math. They have a classroom with 2 teachers here. He is very worried about his school work (Brandon if you are reading this take notes from your little bro).
We hope everyone has a great day! Thanks for thinking of Us….
From me: Bri also posted some pictures today,... and I have to say, just at the few I saw, Alex is one tough, young man!! This little guy is going through so much. He is getting awesome support from his dad, and anyone who has ever cared for someone in the hospital like this knows how emotionally & physically draining it is, especially when it's your children, so please remember Brian (& Tina! A mother's heart is a fragile thing!) and pray for their strength & well-being through all of this, too. Keep those prayers going strong, people!! (((HUGS)))
Update from Michelle
From me: I recieved the following news this morning.
From Michelle: 04/15/08 6:03 a.m.-- Thanks for the prayers - My grandma is back home at the nursing home. They were able to get her blood sugars stabilized and on some meds for bronchitis.
My aunt is also out of the hospital at my cousins house in the cities. They are saying she had fluid around her heart which was causing her problems.
From Michelle: 04/15/08 6:03 a.m.-- Thanks for the prayers - My grandma is back home at the nursing home. They were able to get her blood sugars stabilized and on some meds for bronchitis.
My aunt is also out of the hospital at my cousins house in the cities. They are saying she had fluid around her heart which was causing her problems.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Another Prayer Request Please
For my friend, Michelle Wallin & her family, in Minnesota. Please be praying for her grandma who has Brochitis and has been having extremely low blood sugar problems. Her blood sugar seems to be stabalizing, but she is avoiding eating. Also, Michelle's aunt, who is in the hospital. The following is a portion of a message I recieved from her yesterday regarding that:
From Michelle: My aunt went to the local hospital yesterday with chest pains - so they put her in ICU on a nitro drip. Last night she had a bad spell and this morning - even with the nitro drip (her heart beat was jumping from 40 beats to 100 plus beats). So they transferred her down to the twin cities by ambulance so they can do more tests to figure out what is going on.
From me: Auntie is in her early to mid 50's and Grandma is 70ish, I believe. Please also remember Michelle in your prayers for some personal stuff she is going through, and having a hard time juggling all the emotions right now.
Prayers Up!
From Michelle: My aunt went to the local hospital yesterday with chest pains - so they put her in ICU on a nitro drip. Last night she had a bad spell and this morning - even with the nitro drip (her heart beat was jumping from 40 beats to 100 plus beats). So they transferred her down to the twin cities by ambulance so they can do more tests to figure out what is going on.
From me: Auntie is in her early to mid 50's and Grandma is 70ish, I believe. Please also remember Michelle in your prayers for some personal stuff she is going through, and having a hard time juggling all the emotions right now.
Prayers Up!
Please Pray for Alex!
From me: I have a BIG prayer request for all my faithful prayer warriors, and ask that you please pass this on to all your respective prayer groups as well.
A friend of mine from many years ago, Brian Junes, has a prayer need for his youngest son, Alex. I would have posted this sooner, but unfortunately, I did not see the messages until last evening. So, let's get everybody on board & start praying hard for this little boy & his family!
Below are copied bulletins from Brian, with his permission, to bring you up to speed on the situation. Please do follow the links provided. They are safe, and they will give you a brief explanation of the medical condition as well as the seriousness of Alex's state.
From Bri: 04/12/08 6:10 p.m.-- Alex has a communicating hydrocele. They are going to go after his infection with aggressive antibiotics. So they are not going to operate right away. Going to monitor him closely the next 3 days then go from there. Alex has been incredible! His ability to deal with adversity is absolutely amazing. He had a new Iv just installed and got a shot of morphine. So his pain is manageable. His temp is still spiking but the staff is right on it. My understanding is that fluid from his Appendex removal is draining through the tube that his testicles descended down. Normally after the testicles drop the tube closes. Alex's for some reason remained open. They do not want to go in and drain the testicles for fear of infection. After his body is rid of infection. There is a simple out patient surgery to repair the hydrocele. Below is a link for some medical explanation.
http://www.clevelandclinic.org/health/health-info/docs/0200/0227.asp?index=4312
___*UPDATE*___
From Bri: 04/13/08 6:16 a.m.-- It has been another long night for Alex. His fever has subsided but his pain has been horrible. They have been working really hard to manage his pain. One of the hardest things for Alex is having to show everyone his testicles. This has began to really bother him. So i have become Alex's ball monitor. I have been using my Iphone to take pics to show to nurses and Dr's(how's that for a Iphone commercial). At about 245am I noticed that there is no more room for growth. The hospital brought in a ultrasound. Yet again Alex had to have a person examine his testicles. His testicles are so sensitive that the slightest touch makes him very uncomfortable. He was given morphine before they started the procedure. Even with the morphine Alex was in a ton of pain. So this ultrasound shows an abcess of the epiditymitis. He is back unable to eat or drink till they decide whats the best action. Here is a link for some medical explanation. I will continue to update. Thanks for keeping Alex in your Prayers. Oh one other thing......I know Alex can handle anything that is thrown at him.
We are here for a fight! So bring it! And we will deal with it!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epididymitis
___*UPDATE*___
From Bri: 04/13/08 11:30 a.m.--Alex is pain is under control right now. The surgery team has decided not to operate.They want to give the meds a chance to work. A urologist is coming to give results of ultra sound. Alex's incision site has become infected. So they are going to remove his staples and clean the wound. They are going to leave wound open so it can drain as it heals. So his wound will take longer to heal because it will heal from the inside out. Alex is a little down today...Which hey who wouldn't be. I asked him if he wanted me to tell everyone anything. He said "Tell them I'm OK.". Alex likes that so many people are following his recovery. I told him he is popular. He said "I know". Update more later .............Thanks everyone.........Our friends and family are amazing! We truly appreciate all your support.
___*UPDATE*___
From Bri: 04/13/08 5:24 p.m.-- So first of all I have to say the glass is half full. Alex's morning started a little rocky. His wound site had become massively infected.They decided that it would be best to remove his staples and clean the wound. Lets just say Alex was not excited about this. They gave him morphine which once again didn't seem to work that great. It was an intense 10 mins while they remove his staples and cleaned things out. What i saw I was not expecting. What looked irritated and red on the outside.........Was green on the inside. I was absolutely shocked. The whole time Alex was in lots of pain. Once again he amazed me as he sucked it up even though it was hard. They are not going to stitch him up. They are going to allow the wound to heal from the inside out.
After the cleaning he was exhausted and fell right asleep. When he woke his mood seemed so much better. Anna Scott Nicole and Izzy came by for a visit. They stopped at sporting good store and picked up a supporter for A lex. He showed off some serious guitar hero skills and watched the Lakers win(which i don't think sits well with a couple nurses)......
When everyone left Alex and I looked at his side. I didn't seem as red and he claimed didn't hurt as bad. So we decided to try and get up and walk. Getting up for him is an event that takes time. I noticed that he moved a little faster then the past. We put on his supporter which helped with support. He was very stiff at first. He hasn't been up for 2 days. Once we got going it went good.
His spirits have lifted cause he feels a little better. As i am writing this the lights are turning on and off(he has a control attached to his bed). Its the little things that make u smile! Thank u everyone who has sent flowers and balloons. He lights up when he reads the cards. Have to go I have a request to find some pretzels.......
___*UPDATE*___
From Bri: 04/14/08 9:19 a.m.-- Alex had a great evening last night. He felt pretty good. For some reason though nights are really hard for the poor guy. Once again he ran a small fever. He went 7 hrs with out any pain med. At 2am his pain level was unbearable. He was really tired but couldn't sleep. Its 9 am and he ate some rice krispys and is snoring logs. Its a new day. So when he wakes mom and grandpa will almost be here. Have a dressing change this morning that he is not looking forward to. After that we are going to try and get him out of bed lots today.
Thanks everyone your support is felt!
___*UPDATE*___
From Bri: 04/14/08 4:07 p.m.-- Another tough day for the boy. Yesterday they stuffed his wound with gauze. They shoved gauze up into his abdominal cavity. Today the removal of the gauze was excruciating. Alex was given morphine for pain but said it felt like he was being stabbed in his stomach.
He was able to get a little rest after but remained in pain. Mom and grandpa got here for a visit. He was very happy to see mom and grandpa. It was time for Him to get out of bed. Today was the hardest day for him to get out of bed. It was very painful. Once again with tears flowing he was able to force himself up. He is a trooper. He was unable to walk very far today. His pain was mostly in his testicles.
We got back to the room and he watch Night at the Museum. Which gave him many laughs. Alex's has been having cramps in his legs. Mom rubbed his legs with lotion and I washed him up with a wash cloth. I think this made grandpa jealous. He said he didn't get care like that when he was in the hospital.
He has walked twice today. Going to try for one more today! Thanks everyone for supporting us.
________
From me: Okay, so let's lift them up in lots & lots of prayers! Brian, Tina, Brandon & (especially!) Alex Junes.......... Thanks everybody, and I'll post updates as I hear more!
A friend of mine from many years ago, Brian Junes, has a prayer need for his youngest son, Alex. I would have posted this sooner, but unfortunately, I did not see the messages until last evening. So, let's get everybody on board & start praying hard for this little boy & his family!
Below are copied bulletins from Brian, with his permission, to bring you up to speed on the situation. Please do follow the links provided. They are safe, and they will give you a brief explanation of the medical condition as well as the seriousness of Alex's state.
From Bri: 04/12/08 6:10 p.m.-- Alex has a communicating hydrocele. They are going to go after his infection with aggressive antibiotics. So they are not going to operate right away. Going to monitor him closely the next 3 days then go from there. Alex has been incredible! His ability to deal with adversity is absolutely amazing. He had a new Iv just installed and got a shot of morphine. So his pain is manageable. His temp is still spiking but the staff is right on it. My understanding is that fluid from his Appendex removal is draining through the tube that his testicles descended down. Normally after the testicles drop the tube closes. Alex's for some reason remained open. They do not want to go in and drain the testicles for fear of infection. After his body is rid of infection. There is a simple out patient surgery to repair the hydrocele. Below is a link for some medical explanation.
http://www.clevelandclinic.org/health/health-info/docs/0200/0227.asp?index=4312
___*UPDATE*___
From Bri: 04/13/08 6:16 a.m.-- It has been another long night for Alex. His fever has subsided but his pain has been horrible. They have been working really hard to manage his pain. One of the hardest things for Alex is having to show everyone his testicles. This has began to really bother him. So i have become Alex's ball monitor. I have been using my Iphone to take pics to show to nurses and Dr's(how's that for a Iphone commercial). At about 245am I noticed that there is no more room for growth. The hospital brought in a ultrasound. Yet again Alex had to have a person examine his testicles. His testicles are so sensitive that the slightest touch makes him very uncomfortable. He was given morphine before they started the procedure. Even with the morphine Alex was in a ton of pain. So this ultrasound shows an abcess of the epiditymitis. He is back unable to eat or drink till they decide whats the best action. Here is a link for some medical explanation. I will continue to update. Thanks for keeping Alex in your Prayers. Oh one other thing......I know Alex can handle anything that is thrown at him.
We are here for a fight! So bring it! And we will deal with it!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epididymitis
___*UPDATE*___
From Bri: 04/13/08 11:30 a.m.--Alex is pain is under control right now. The surgery team has decided not to operate.They want to give the meds a chance to work. A urologist is coming to give results of ultra sound. Alex's incision site has become infected. So they are going to remove his staples and clean the wound. They are going to leave wound open so it can drain as it heals. So his wound will take longer to heal because it will heal from the inside out. Alex is a little down today...Which hey who wouldn't be. I asked him if he wanted me to tell everyone anything. He said "Tell them I'm OK.". Alex likes that so many people are following his recovery. I told him he is popular. He said "I know". Update more later .............Thanks everyone.........Our friends and family are amazing! We truly appreciate all your support.
___*UPDATE*___
From Bri: 04/13/08 5:24 p.m.-- So first of all I have to say the glass is half full. Alex's morning started a little rocky. His wound site had become massively infected.They decided that it would be best to remove his staples and clean the wound. Lets just say Alex was not excited about this. They gave him morphine which once again didn't seem to work that great. It was an intense 10 mins while they remove his staples and cleaned things out. What i saw I was not expecting. What looked irritated and red on the outside.........Was green on the inside. I was absolutely shocked. The whole time Alex was in lots of pain. Once again he amazed me as he sucked it up even though it was hard. They are not going to stitch him up. They are going to allow the wound to heal from the inside out.
After the cleaning he was exhausted and fell right asleep. When he woke his mood seemed so much better. Anna Scott Nicole and Izzy came by for a visit. They stopped at sporting good store and picked up a supporter for A lex. He showed off some serious guitar hero skills and watched the Lakers win(which i don't think sits well with a couple nurses)......
When everyone left Alex and I looked at his side. I didn't seem as red and he claimed didn't hurt as bad. So we decided to try and get up and walk. Getting up for him is an event that takes time. I noticed that he moved a little faster then the past. We put on his supporter which helped with support. He was very stiff at first. He hasn't been up for 2 days. Once we got going it went good.
His spirits have lifted cause he feels a little better. As i am writing this the lights are turning on and off(he has a control attached to his bed). Its the little things that make u smile! Thank u everyone who has sent flowers and balloons. He lights up when he reads the cards. Have to go I have a request to find some pretzels.......
___*UPDATE*___
From Bri: 04/14/08 9:19 a.m.-- Alex had a great evening last night. He felt pretty good. For some reason though nights are really hard for the poor guy. Once again he ran a small fever. He went 7 hrs with out any pain med. At 2am his pain level was unbearable. He was really tired but couldn't sleep. Its 9 am and he ate some rice krispys and is snoring logs. Its a new day. So when he wakes mom and grandpa will almost be here. Have a dressing change this morning that he is not looking forward to. After that we are going to try and get him out of bed lots today.
Thanks everyone your support is felt!
___*UPDATE*___
From Bri: 04/14/08 4:07 p.m.-- Another tough day for the boy. Yesterday they stuffed his wound with gauze. They shoved gauze up into his abdominal cavity. Today the removal of the gauze was excruciating. Alex was given morphine for pain but said it felt like he was being stabbed in his stomach.
He was able to get a little rest after but remained in pain. Mom and grandpa got here for a visit. He was very happy to see mom and grandpa. It was time for Him to get out of bed. Today was the hardest day for him to get out of bed. It was very painful. Once again with tears flowing he was able to force himself up. He is a trooper. He was unable to walk very far today. His pain was mostly in his testicles.
We got back to the room and he watch Night at the Museum. Which gave him many laughs. Alex's has been having cramps in his legs. Mom rubbed his legs with lotion and I washed him up with a wash cloth. I think this made grandpa jealous. He said he didn't get care like that when he was in the hospital.
He has walked twice today. Going to try for one more today! Thanks everyone for supporting us.
________
From me: Okay, so let's lift them up in lots & lots of prayers! Brian, Tina, Brandon & (especially!) Alex Junes.......... Thanks everybody, and I'll post updates as I hear more!
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
Elephant Paints Portrait!
Takes awhile to load so you can replay without all the pauses, but SO well worth it!! And to think of all the ignoramus people who claim animals are the dumb ones! They’re an oxymoron by their own existence, LOL
This just proves the amazing abilities of God’s intricate designs. This is AWESOME, check it out!
(8 1/2 minute run-time w/o the interruptions)
To learn more about Hong (http://www.elephantart.com/catalog/default.php?cPath=69), her paintings, the paintings of other elephants, and how you can help the elephant conservatory program, visit The Asian Elephant Art & Conservation Project at elephantart.com. Please also be sure to read The Elephant’s Current Plight when you visit the AEACP’s site!
This just proves the amazing abilities of God’s intricate designs. This is AWESOME, check it out!
(8 1/2 minute run-time w/o the interruptions)
To learn more about Hong (http://www.elephantart.com/catalog/default.php?cPath=69), her paintings, the paintings of other elephants, and how you can help the elephant conservatory program, visit The Asian Elephant Art & Conservation Project at elephantart.com. Please also be sure to read The Elephant’s Current Plight when you visit the AEACP’s site!
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
Prayers Needed!!
From me: I just got this from my cousin, Barb. PLEASE read, pray, and pass on to your prayer chains. We need to lift Robin & her family UP! Thanks in advance! xoxo
From Barb: "Over the past months, I have written blogs regarding a friend from Hawaii having found out she had cancer. We had some good news in one email, and some news she needed prayers on with another. Today, I received an update from Robin, and she once again needs the power of prayer and support to be heard and felt.
As there is good news that the original tumor has shrunk to nearly nothing, it has spread now to her adrenal gland and there is now a 3cm mass. She will start another round of chemo on Monday and continue every 3-weeks until they are to report to their next duty station.
I am asking my friends and family to tell their churches on Sunday for the prayer requests, your youth groups, your prayer wheels, to please say a prayer for the Shawlinski family in Texas....Robert, Robin, and their children Sean, Rachel, and Shane. Robin needs all the prayers and uplifting support that can come from all of you to help her beat this disease!"
From Barb: "Over the past months, I have written blogs regarding a friend from Hawaii having found out she had cancer. We had some good news in one email, and some news she needed prayers on with another. Today, I received an update from Robin, and she once again needs the power of prayer and support to be heard and felt.
As there is good news that the original tumor has shrunk to nearly nothing, it has spread now to her adrenal gland and there is now a 3cm mass. She will start another round of chemo on Monday and continue every 3-weeks until they are to report to their next duty station.
I am asking my friends and family to tell their churches on Sunday for the prayer requests, your youth groups, your prayer wheels, to please say a prayer for the Shawlinski family in Texas....Robert, Robin, and their children Sean, Rachel, and Shane. Robin needs all the prayers and uplifting support that can come from all of you to help her beat this disease!"
Monday, April 07, 2008
Got Cyber Hugs??
Cuz if so, I sure could use some!
My FMS has been flaring up a LOT this past month, and I am just feeling SO crappy!
Those who know me well, know that ordinarily I am both a realist and an optimist,... always doing my best to see the world as it really is, but also trying to find the good in things. I try really hard not to allow negative energy to swallow me up, but I'm only human, and I think I've just reached a point today where I need to throw a big ol' temper-tantrum about it.
So here is your warning,... if you are not up for listening to me vent & get some things off my chest, then turn around and leave this post quickly,... don't walk,.. RUN! Get out while you still can cuz I'm about to explode! LOL
I have big Faith, but faith only makes things possible,... not easy! So, I am giving myself permission to rant because everybody needs to sometimes, and because I am just so darn sick and tired of feeling sick and tired! I want a hug, but right now touching me HURTS! My pressure points are all throbbing with stabbing, aching pain and while my heart is crying "hold me", my body is screaming, "DON'T TOUCH MEEEE!!!". Fybromyalgia sucks!
Some days I feel like a hip, fun, young mom and then others like I should be president of the Old Phartz Club or something! I feel exhausted. I feel like my head is in a cloud, I can't concentrate, keep my focus, my vision is blurred,... my arms feel like they're weighted down by cinder blocks, my legs feel like jello, sometimes I feel such exhaustion to the point I don't even have the energy it takes to speak actual words..... it's exasperating! Just roll me up into a ball and push me into a corner. Everywhere hurts. A mild touch can feel like a full-on *punch*. I want to scream!
Some flare-ups last only a day or two while others can last weeks,... I did pretty well this past year, but now here I am back in a chronic state of going constantly back & forth between decent days, good days, and then back to completely disabling days... I feel like a yo-yo!
And I would NEVER wish what I have on anyone, but the truth of the matter is, if you don't have it, then you just don't get it. But I SO appreciate those who try to understand, and who love me, and have patience with me on my bad days.
Anyway, so instead of being all sunshine & roses the rest of this evening,... I decided to let myself get pissy about it. It's good medicine once in awhile, right?? And besides, you guys won't know I'm in a relapse unless I tell you!
SO! SOMEbody please give me something else to think about for awhile! Leave me some funny stories or even just those soft cyber (((hugs))) I mentioned I could use.......... cuz they don't hurt! They hug my heart and not my aching body.................. I promise, I'll be more cheerful tomorrow!! *wink*
And to any of you who stuck through this post with me,... a BIG thank you. I actually feel a lot better already, just in getting some of this off my chest!
My FMS has been flaring up a LOT this past month, and I am just feeling SO crappy!
Those who know me well, know that ordinarily I am both a realist and an optimist,... always doing my best to see the world as it really is, but also trying to find the good in things. I try really hard not to allow negative energy to swallow me up, but I'm only human, and I think I've just reached a point today where I need to throw a big ol' temper-tantrum about it.
So here is your warning,... if you are not up for listening to me vent & get some things off my chest, then turn around and leave this post quickly,... don't walk,.. RUN! Get out while you still can cuz I'm about to explode! LOL
I have big Faith, but faith only makes things possible,... not easy! So, I am giving myself permission to rant because everybody needs to sometimes, and because I am just so darn sick and tired of feeling sick and tired! I want a hug, but right now touching me HURTS! My pressure points are all throbbing with stabbing, aching pain and while my heart is crying "hold me", my body is screaming, "DON'T TOUCH MEEEE!!!". Fybromyalgia sucks!
Some days I feel like a hip, fun, young mom and then others like I should be president of the Old Phartz Club or something! I feel exhausted. I feel like my head is in a cloud, I can't concentrate, keep my focus, my vision is blurred,... my arms feel like they're weighted down by cinder blocks, my legs feel like jello, sometimes I feel such exhaustion to the point I don't even have the energy it takes to speak actual words..... it's exasperating! Just roll me up into a ball and push me into a corner. Everywhere hurts. A mild touch can feel like a full-on *punch*. I want to scream!
Some flare-ups last only a day or two while others can last weeks,... I did pretty well this past year, but now here I am back in a chronic state of going constantly back & forth between decent days, good days, and then back to completely disabling days... I feel like a yo-yo!
And I would NEVER wish what I have on anyone, but the truth of the matter is, if you don't have it, then you just don't get it. But I SO appreciate those who try to understand, and who love me, and have patience with me on my bad days.
Anyway, so instead of being all sunshine & roses the rest of this evening,... I decided to let myself get pissy about it. It's good medicine once in awhile, right?? And besides, you guys won't know I'm in a relapse unless I tell you!
SO! SOMEbody please give me something else to think about for awhile! Leave me some funny stories or even just those soft cyber (((hugs))) I mentioned I could use.......... cuz they don't hurt! They hug my heart and not my aching body.................. I promise, I'll be more cheerful tomorrow!! *wink*
And to any of you who stuck through this post with me,... a BIG thank you. I actually feel a lot better already, just in getting some of this off my chest!
Sunday, April 06, 2008
Momma, this town needs some joy!
I was planning on posting this anyway, but in consideration of my last post, I thought it all the more reason to share.....
Ashley, our youngest at age 8 1/2 now, has always been able to make just about anybody's frown turn upside-down,... she can melt your heart with just a flash of her smile and a batting of those big doe eyes of her's. But lately, she has taken to purposely "Spreading Joy" as she calls it.
Now that Spring has sprung, there of course are daffodils sprouting everywhere, and she most certainly is not letting them go to waste!
Every time we leave the house, she picks another to take along with us to give to some lucky individual. To some this may seem sweet, but hardly spirit-moving. However, I beg to differ! I have seen this small act brighten person after person's day for the past few weeks, and it is amazing to me to watch as my little girl literally minister's God's love in this way... by letting her light shine. *que choir*
Just to give an example, the waitress at the ihop... whom it was evident had seen better days (as they were short-staffed & she was feeling the pressure)... Ashley reached out, gave her the flower and said, "This is for you.". The waitress was taken off-guard for a moment and then quickly smiled as Ashley added, "And, you're beautiful."..... You could see this woman's whole body soften in reciept of the love in this simple gesture from my child. She told Ashley "thank you", and then scurried off to complete the tasks of our order......... literally beaming. I even saw her stop another nearby waitress, who also was feeling the pressure they were under I might add, and asked her to help her put the flower in her hair (she had it in a bun) as she told her what Ashley had done. And then the other waitress seemed to almost melt over it, too! And regardless of everything else,.. she smiled, near glowed, for the rest of our time there. She beamed so much so that I can imagine it carried on with her throughout the rest of her evening.
Another example, is one of the managers at our local Fred Meyer. I rarely have seen this woman smile in the 3 1/2 years that we've lived here. Her mouth is always quite pursed, she looks tense and annoyed by humanity most days. Well, the other night, Ashley had gone with me to pick up a couple of things, and being it was few, we used the self-check/u-scan. At the terminal next to us, was this woman. She had just gotten off work, and was scanning a few of her own purchases before she left for home. Ashley wanted to give her the flower, and to be quite honest, I was debating whether or not she should even try because this woman's personality usually seems like one you generally want to avoid, and I wasn't sure how she would respond to Ashley. I was concerned her feelings might get hurt, but at the same time, this is something I try very hard to instill in my children,... to shine their light brightly in an ever-darkening world. So, Ashley walks over and says, "Excuse me... This is for you". The woman turned around with her usual grim face, and upon the sight of this angelic, little girl holding up a bright, yellow daffodil for her, completely transformed before my very eyes. Once again I saw a tired, tense human form instantly melt into a soft, welcoming spirit.... and you know, I do believe I saw her eyes glisten with a tear! She thanked Ashley, and as she started to turn, she turned back, leaned down and hugged her. She told us that she couldn't remember the last time anyone did something so sweet for her...
On the way to the video store the next day (& with flower in hand ready for the cashier), Ashley said to me, "Mommy, do you think Jesus is proud of me for spreading joy?", and of course I said "Yes, absolutely... You've been doing amazing things." She says, "Good. Because I like spreading joy, and Momma, this town NEEDS some joy!"
I never would have imagined so much joy could come just from recieving a flower, but in the last 2-3 weeks, I have seen lives being touched by this small gesture time and time again.... even the guy at the drive-through!
And then, a few days later, we were at Freddy's again and Ashley saw the manager gal so she said "hi" as we walked past behind her. She glanced not thinking someone was speaking to her, but once she caught sight of Ashley, I saw her do a double-take and then a big smile came over her face as she waved and almost shouted, "I still have your flower and every time I look at it, I think of you!".
I have lost count of how many people Ashley has effected with her flowers... If only more people would share even a small piece of kindness with one another maybe this world wouldn't seem so grim.
I am truly inspired by her. How about you?
Ashley, our youngest at age 8 1/2 now, has always been able to make just about anybody's frown turn upside-down,... she can melt your heart with just a flash of her smile and a batting of those big doe eyes of her's. But lately, she has taken to purposely "Spreading Joy" as she calls it.
Now that Spring has sprung, there of course are daffodils sprouting everywhere, and she most certainly is not letting them go to waste!
Every time we leave the house, she picks another to take along with us to give to some lucky individual. To some this may seem sweet, but hardly spirit-moving. However, I beg to differ! I have seen this small act brighten person after person's day for the past few weeks, and it is amazing to me to watch as my little girl literally minister's God's love in this way... by letting her light shine. *que choir*
Just to give an example, the waitress at the ihop... whom it was evident had seen better days (as they were short-staffed & she was feeling the pressure)... Ashley reached out, gave her the flower and said, "This is for you.". The waitress was taken off-guard for a moment and then quickly smiled as Ashley added, "And, you're beautiful."..... You could see this woman's whole body soften in reciept of the love in this simple gesture from my child. She told Ashley "thank you", and then scurried off to complete the tasks of our order......... literally beaming. I even saw her stop another nearby waitress, who also was feeling the pressure they were under I might add, and asked her to help her put the flower in her hair (she had it in a bun) as she told her what Ashley had done. And then the other waitress seemed to almost melt over it, too! And regardless of everything else,.. she smiled, near glowed, for the rest of our time there. She beamed so much so that I can imagine it carried on with her throughout the rest of her evening.
Another example, is one of the managers at our local Fred Meyer. I rarely have seen this woman smile in the 3 1/2 years that we've lived here. Her mouth is always quite pursed, she looks tense and annoyed by humanity most days. Well, the other night, Ashley had gone with me to pick up a couple of things, and being it was few, we used the self-check/u-scan. At the terminal next to us, was this woman. She had just gotten off work, and was scanning a few of her own purchases before she left for home. Ashley wanted to give her the flower, and to be quite honest, I was debating whether or not she should even try because this woman's personality usually seems like one you generally want to avoid, and I wasn't sure how she would respond to Ashley. I was concerned her feelings might get hurt, but at the same time, this is something I try very hard to instill in my children,... to shine their light brightly in an ever-darkening world. So, Ashley walks over and says, "Excuse me... This is for you". The woman turned around with her usual grim face, and upon the sight of this angelic, little girl holding up a bright, yellow daffodil for her, completely transformed before my very eyes. Once again I saw a tired, tense human form instantly melt into a soft, welcoming spirit.... and you know, I do believe I saw her eyes glisten with a tear! She thanked Ashley, and as she started to turn, she turned back, leaned down and hugged her. She told us that she couldn't remember the last time anyone did something so sweet for her...
On the way to the video store the next day (& with flower in hand ready for the cashier), Ashley said to me, "Mommy, do you think Jesus is proud of me for spreading joy?", and of course I said "Yes, absolutely... You've been doing amazing things." She says, "Good. Because I like spreading joy, and Momma, this town NEEDS some joy!"
I never would have imagined so much joy could come just from recieving a flower, but in the last 2-3 weeks, I have seen lives being touched by this small gesture time and time again.... even the guy at the drive-through!
And then, a few days later, we were at Freddy's again and Ashley saw the manager gal so she said "hi" as we walked past behind her. She glanced not thinking someone was speaking to her, but once she caught sight of Ashley, I saw her do a double-take and then a big smile came over her face as she waved and almost shouted, "I still have your flower and every time I look at it, I think of you!".
I have lost count of how many people Ashley has effected with her flowers... If only more people would share even a small piece of kindness with one another maybe this world wouldn't seem so grim.
I am truly inspired by her. How about you?
Mean People Suck
I am just so sick of them! I read a friend’s blog today about an incident she experienced, and it just hurt me a great deal to know that her inner light was dimmed because of some inhumane, bum of a human being. She is one of those true, genuine souls and IMHO, one of the LAST people that should be victimized by this world’s ugly nature. To have an innocent beauty sapped of her positive energy, her radiant glow,... to have her color faded for even a moment because some inconsiderate, selfish, mean POOP isn’t happy in his own life. It both infuriates me and saddens me at the same time. I truly feel sorry for people like that! They are a cancer to society & our good nature, and as hard as we try to repel the ill effect they have on us, we just cannot deny that it hurts.
I came across this today, and I liked the way this guy articulated the notion so I thought I’d share it. In honor of you, D!
-----
"...Being nice to others benefits the self. If someone has a history of taking the time to help others in even small ways, they will get help in return. People want to help kind people. It makes them feel good about themselves. This seems obvious to me, but how often do we forget? Self esteem is directly affected by how others view us. Or more accurately, by how we view ourselves through the mirror of another’s viewpoint.
Conversely - as we all know - Mean People Suck. Meanness comes from anger, low self esteem, hatred, and paranoia. It comes from fear. Mean people are unhappy. Mean people, to a large degree, think only of themselves. Again, I state the obvious,.....
I believe, as I watch humanity interact, that most people are sharing this self-induced misery of the American lifestyle. I call it American by way of convenient, it is in no way confined to our country or continent. It really comes from any society that embraces materialism at its core. We’ve spent our lives ingesting a mild poison of subversive thoughts in our entertainment, ideas that enforce an attitude of selfishness which undermines our familial support mechanism and our innate openness of heart. A few examples:
Show me the money.
What’s in it for me?
Lookin’ out for Number One.
Take the money and run.
Feel lucky, Punk?
In your grill.
Stifle Yourself!
Countless other examples exist. We could make a game of it! Such messages of "me-first-isms" counteract a truism of life that is fundamental to our mental well being: "I" am not the Center of the Universe. To focus on self is to forfeit a huge chunk of what living is.....
Alongside the me-speak is the shouting commercial establishment that seems to pervade our very existence. Commerce is everywhere, millions of companies compete for our limited attention in a virtual Marketplace of Life. The individual messages are irrelevant, but the underlying theses of marketing does much to stoke our angst and undermine our sagging self images.
To fuel commercial markets, an illusion of need must be maintained. In the profusion of today’s marketing barrage, the constant subliminal reminders that we are somehow lacking works into our heads to lower our self image which acts to anger us. Without understanding why, we begin to have resentful thoughts about our lifestyle, our work load and many other facets of modern industrial life. This all-encompassing resentment quickly flares into anger at the slightest provocation, thus completing our transition from rational humans to raging commuters, pushy shoppers, screaming parents, or a plethora of other expressions of our discontent.
But this is all illusion, folks. We do not need the new Gimcrack 4001 to enliven our lives. To risk another cliche, we must learn to "want what we have". And what we have is the ability to raise ourselves from the marketing miasma of enforced need through applying our lives to another person.
We have what we need to love and be loved, to partake of a feedback loop of mutual kindness and support. Self-absorbed people invariably are unhappy. Happiness is what we all seek, what the incessant marketing noise promise to us but can’t deliver. Happiness is what we knew as children when our parents comprised our world and loving them and being loved in return was all existence. As adults, recreating this is difficult - but not impossible: Have children and give all of yourself to them, your time, your precious money, your love. Center your life on someone else for a change....
Perhaps you think these warm, fuzzy words are a bit overworked, a bit cloying. Perhaps you’re scoffing at the sentiment. Then again, perhaps you need support more than you know."
-----
- Well put, I think! This world is bleeding itself dry. If only the bulk of our society would wake up, smell the reality within themselves and stop polluting the air with their negative energy. To quote Tannish once more, "Only by being attentive to your own thoughts, words and deeds can you make a substantial improvement to the world at large." Why is it so hard to stop and ask yourself, "WWJD"?? And then just "T.H.I.N.K.: Is it Thoughtful, Helpful, Intelligent, Necessary or Kind?"
Peace Out, Ya’ll.
I came across this today, and I liked the way this guy articulated the notion so I thought I’d share it. In honor of you, D!
-----
"...Being nice to others benefits the self. If someone has a history of taking the time to help others in even small ways, they will get help in return. People want to help kind people. It makes them feel good about themselves. This seems obvious to me, but how often do we forget? Self esteem is directly affected by how others view us. Or more accurately, by how we view ourselves through the mirror of another’s viewpoint.
Conversely - as we all know - Mean People Suck. Meanness comes from anger, low self esteem, hatred, and paranoia. It comes from fear. Mean people are unhappy. Mean people, to a large degree, think only of themselves. Again, I state the obvious,.....
I believe, as I watch humanity interact, that most people are sharing this self-induced misery of the American lifestyle. I call it American by way of convenient, it is in no way confined to our country or continent. It really comes from any society that embraces materialism at its core. We’ve spent our lives ingesting a mild poison of subversive thoughts in our entertainment, ideas that enforce an attitude of selfishness which undermines our familial support mechanism and our innate openness of heart. A few examples:
Show me the money.
What’s in it for me?
Lookin’ out for Number One.
Take the money and run.
Feel lucky, Punk?
In your grill.
Stifle Yourself!
Countless other examples exist. We could make a game of it! Such messages of "me-first-isms" counteract a truism of life that is fundamental to our mental well being: "I" am not the Center of the Universe. To focus on self is to forfeit a huge chunk of what living is.....
Alongside the me-speak is the shouting commercial establishment that seems to pervade our very existence. Commerce is everywhere, millions of companies compete for our limited attention in a virtual Marketplace of Life. The individual messages are irrelevant, but the underlying theses of marketing does much to stoke our angst and undermine our sagging self images.
To fuel commercial markets, an illusion of need must be maintained. In the profusion of today’s marketing barrage, the constant subliminal reminders that we are somehow lacking works into our heads to lower our self image which acts to anger us. Without understanding why, we begin to have resentful thoughts about our lifestyle, our work load and many other facets of modern industrial life. This all-encompassing resentment quickly flares into anger at the slightest provocation, thus completing our transition from rational humans to raging commuters, pushy shoppers, screaming parents, or a plethora of other expressions of our discontent.
But this is all illusion, folks. We do not need the new Gimcrack 4001 to enliven our lives. To risk another cliche, we must learn to "want what we have". And what we have is the ability to raise ourselves from the marketing miasma of enforced need through applying our lives to another person.
We have what we need to love and be loved, to partake of a feedback loop of mutual kindness and support. Self-absorbed people invariably are unhappy. Happiness is what we all seek, what the incessant marketing noise promise to us but can’t deliver. Happiness is what we knew as children when our parents comprised our world and loving them and being loved in return was all existence. As adults, recreating this is difficult - but not impossible: Have children and give all of yourself to them, your time, your precious money, your love. Center your life on someone else for a change....
Perhaps you think these warm, fuzzy words are a bit overworked, a bit cloying. Perhaps you’re scoffing at the sentiment. Then again, perhaps you need support more than you know."
-----
- Well put, I think! This world is bleeding itself dry. If only the bulk of our society would wake up, smell the reality within themselves and stop polluting the air with their negative energy. To quote Tannish once more, "Only by being attentive to your own thoughts, words and deeds can you make a substantial improvement to the world at large." Why is it so hard to stop and ask yourself, "WWJD"?? And then just "T.H.I.N.K.: Is it Thoughtful, Helpful, Intelligent, Necessary or Kind?"
Peace Out, Ya’ll.
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