Can’t go around being sad all the time.

Dad is “waiting on the tarmac” for Thursday’s surgery. After much thought and consideration, Dad decided to go ahead with brain surgery. I’m not sure what is scarier: the surgery or the sound of “brain surgery.”

I think all of our fears were set aside when we lined up the pros and cons. With a highly skilled and sought after neurosurgeon and a seemingly capable team, the cons were greatly outweighed.

These days, the nurse said, brain surgery has become so routine. These surgeons do it all the time. I had questioned the nurse about the surgeon, because really, who would know better? I was relieved when she said Dad was fortunate to have been assigned to this particular surgeon as there are some she’d “never let touch" her.

Ok…that was assuring, but then I think, sheeesh! What if this all came down a day sooner or a day later when Dr. Good With Knives was on the back nine??!

La La La La La. That’s my mantra for sending bad thoughts down the road.

Dad’s spirit has stayed strong and positive throughout out this journey. Mom has been the most attentive care giver anyone could ever hope for. Her unending quest for knowledge both in traditional and alternative health options have fueled her passion for years, to our whole family’s benefit. In addition, as a Reiki practitioner for over 22 years, her ability to comfort and heal her large family throughout the years has been priceless.

Dad is the biggest beneficiary of Mom’s Reiki lately and it shows. Yesterday afternoon, there was a noticeable difference in my dad’s color and his speech slur seemed improved. I could see his rosy glow again.

I picked up my sisters later in day and took them to the hospital. It wasn’t long before my brothers with their families visited as well. We had a room full and, not surprising with my family, it was lively. Catch up stories filled the air with laughter.

Navigating loss seems tricky when I think about it too much. I don’t feel comfortable walking around sad or even voicing out loud my harrowing feelings. I feel energized by the laughter and can’t help to think Dad does too. A friend said to me that there’s no use taking our precious time lamenting about how little time we have to share. I couldn’t agree more.

So simple. So wise.