Ted Kennedy Finds Strength in a Moment of Crisis – Where is my strength?

There are times when life takes a turn and grabs your complete attention, when you have no choice, but to take note. At this moment the following piece describes what has me thinking. I’ve had to write about it in order to understand its importance. From time to time, as they occur I will share these sorts of thoughts with you. It is not directly about food, but it is and will always be about our lives.

I was struck watching Ted Kennedy wave to the press as he left the hospital. After being given a life-changing diagnosis he knew, with total conviction, what he needed to do—go sailing. He needed to clear his head and gather his strength.

He had a clarity and self assuredness that made me wonder, what would I do? I found the fact that I didn’t know worrisome. Was it going for a walk on the beach, sitting at a café in France or sitting under the tree I’d discovered as an adolescent?

That tree was located in the middle of a field overlooking rolling hills—it felt magical. Sitting under it, looking out over the landscape, made me feel clearheaded and sure of myself. Unfortunately, at this moment I don’t have such a place.

I know I would take a long walk, but I can’t think of where I would go. I’d put my headphones on and listen to great music. I’m just not sure what music truly empowers me. How could I not know that? That realization made me profoundly sad.

Knowing that there are things out there that give me strength, but not knowing what they are feels similar to having a goal I want to achieve, but not knowing how to accomplish it. Instead, I just sit back and hope it will happen. It might, but do I really want to leave it to chance?

Ted Kennedy’s certainty showed me without question that the time to define what I need to maintain my strength is now, before I need it.

I want to gather as much information about myself as I can both for me and as a guide for my family who may need it someday. I’ve decided to write down what I learn and create my own ‘operating manual’ titled: Instructions for optimum effectiveness or keeping Adeline happy. Who better to do it than me?