Gratitude In Spite of Adversity

Sometimes I feel like I would like to trade my body in for a newer model. I am not a fan of the aging process. I don't recommend it to anyone. However, I am a realist and know that I can't turn back the clock so I must learn to embrace any changes that are on the horizon for me.

My reasons for the title of this post is because yesterday I spent the day (7 hours) sitting in medical waiting rooms. I had been experiencing 4 days of pain in my lower left abdomen along with a low grade fever and suspected that I might have another case of diverticulitis. Having had it before, I kind of recognized the symptoms, but I decided to call Neal (my brother who is a retired physician) to ask his medical opinion and he suggested that I try to get seen by a physician asap. Fortunately, I was able to get in to see my gastroenterologist pretty quickly. After describing my symptoms to Dr. Tyagi, he also suspected diverticulitis so he sent me to an Imaging Center (where I spent 5 hrs.) to have a CT Scan, which confirmed that I did have it and it was, fortunately, in its early stages. I also had blood and urine tests run but haven't gotten the results back yet. I will get the results in a week when I have a follow-up appointment with Dr Tyagi. Until then, I will be downing my miracle cure tablets (antibiotics), resting, and adjusting my diet (no fiber) as per doctors orders.

Since Thanksgiving is just around the corner, I am reminded that I should try to see the good in things, look on the bright side, and to be more thankful for every experience in my life. Sometimes this is hard to do where poor health is concerned. Relating to my experiences yesterday, here is a list of things I can be thankful for:
1)  I am grateful for modern medicine and state-of-the-art equipment that makes it possible to view my lower bowel allowing a clear picture of what was causing all my pain.
2)  I am grateful that I have been blessed to be able to afford medical insurance which will cover some of the costs.
3)  I am grateful that the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) has not gone into effect yet and that I can still see the doctors of my choice. Had Obamacare gone into effect, chances are that my 7 hours spent seeking medical help yesterday most likely would have been extended many more hours or I may have had to wait weeks to get any medical assistance at all.
4)  I am grateful for antibiotics. Without them, I know that my condition would be life-threatening.
5)  I am grateful that I don't have small children at home to tend to or have a full-time job to report to while I recover. I can truly limit my activities  - exactly what the doctor ordered.
6)  I am grateful that my back hasn't given me any problems for almost a week. This is a real "tender mercy" since having back pain on top of the abdominal pain would have been very difficult, especially since I can't take any pain medications until my colon has healed.

"He who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious" D&C 78:19

"The Lord wants you to have a spirit of gratitude in all you do and say. Live with a spirit of thanksgiving and you will have greater happiness and satisfaction in life. Gratitude will turn your heart to the Lord and help you recognize His influence and blessings in your life. Even in your most difficult times, you can find much to be grateful for. Doing so will strengthen and bless you."  [For the Strength of Youth]