The Goddess Speaks Joyce Russell

Illness won’t end life yet

Looking back at the trials, tribulations, difficulties raising a family and financial burdens over the years, it is somewhat of a miracle we are still together.

Bob and I were high school sweethearts, but discovered that the fascination we had with each other got lost somewhere along the way, with all the responsibilities that soon engulfed us.

After our children were on their own, my husband retired and became involved in my travel business. We traveled throughout much of the world with clients who were mainly senior citizens and, for the most part, widows. They loved Bob. He was always there to help with their luggage, listen to their stories or to patiently explain the itinerary for the day. And somehow we lost sight of our own needs, taking care of others first and foremost.

Recently we retired from that business and I began my dream of writing a children's book.

But last September, Bob went to see his doctor for a routine check-up. The doctor discovered a massive blockage in Bob's neck and chest. He ordered surgery.

During those five hours of surgery, my thoughts were of our 50 years of marriage. Only the good times we had with each other and our family filled my thoughts. I prayed that he would make it through.

And he did. In January we took a trip to our favorite place, Hawaii. I savored every moment.

Last month we visited the doctor again for more tests. The results were not good. There is l00 percent blockage to Bob's brain on the left side. We were told there is nothing more the surgeon can do for him.

After a week of just sitting around, thinking about the limited time we may have left, I said to him, "Why are we wasting this precious time, waiting to die? Let's start living each moment of every day to the fullest! You could outlive all of us! After all, that decision is not ours."

He has wanted to go back to Europe, so I am in the planning stages of arranging a trip there.

Can we afford it? No.

We can't afford not to go either.

We are also in the process of arranging book signings in Hawaii for my new book.

I once heard someone say, "When our time arrives to leave this Earth, we never regret the things that we have done as much as the things we have not."

We have to pursue our dreams and goals as long as we have breath!