April 16, 2011 12:10 AM

It's been a few days! But that doesn't mean that nothing has transpired, Though I have to admit that, to me anyway, it's not too awe inspiring. I did make another "First Connection" telephone call. Considering that most peiople are expected to make only 1, maybe two, calls a year; the fact that I have made 8 or 9 is unheard of. The most humbling part is that at the end of the call most of the people are so appreciative to have had the opportunity to speak with someone who has walked the walk that they are about to take. But these people are so upbeat and positive even though they still have a long way to go and the end result is far from certain. To me that is the most amazing thing. And, once again, I come away from the telephone call with a renewed confidence and faith in the human spirit - talking with people who will stare adversity in the face and not flinch. People who will take control of their own lives and persevere against all odds. This has been one of the many blessings that I have received from having this disease. It is something that I never would have been exposed to in my previous life. Tonight, however, I experienced an ongoig blessing. We went out to dinner with a group of church friends that was initially brought together as a "foyer group" - really nothing more than eight people who were to be together and share whatever activities they desired for one year until new groups were selected for the following year. This group was brought together 9 years ago and has refused to disband. Foyer groups are no longer part of our church's activity list - but our commitment to each other and to the group cannot be broken. I have to admit that living on a fixed income can make dinner at a pricey restaurant something to be carefully considered. However, the opportunity to be together and to share stories, laughs, and inner thoughts makes it more than all worthwhile. This is what life is really all about and truly captures what is important in life - good friends, good times, and the blessings that God gives to us. So, again, nothing of any major importance happened healthwise or otherwise. Yet, I was rewarded with the opportunity, once again, to observe and to experience first hand the indomitable nature of the human spirit. I am so blessed... Bob