A reflection by Danny Schweers —

After open heart surgery yesterday, my friend is doing well, thank God!

Even at 84, he was fit enough to qualify for the procedure, perhaps because he has been a runner and a distance walker. At the same time, I pray for all those not doing well after their surgeries, and those not even fit enough to qualify, who are running out of options.

And if I thank God for the doctors, nurses, and all who support them, not forgetting the pencil pushers and bean counters who make Medicare and health insurance possible, I recognize that many do not have these professional services, imperfect as they are.

And if my friend has a positive attitude, if he is embracing the future whatever it brings, if he is willing to adapt, if he continues to be charming and funny, if he is surrounded by family and friends, thank God!

At the same time, I pray for all those who are not like my friend, those who are pessimists, those who avoid thinking about the future, who protest every change, who are irascible and irritating, and who have few close friends — people perhaps a bit like me.

God help us to change!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Danny N. Schweers chairs SsAM’s Communication Committee. He is an active photographer and writer. Click here to visit his website and make a comment.

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