It's funny how life can change on a dime. Let me share an example with you. Last Friday, I took my chocolate labrador retriever, Kona, to the veterinarian. She had been limping for a few days and not putting weight on her right front foot. About 30 minutes into the appointment, I learned that she had an agressive bone cancer in her elbow and needed to have her right front leg amputated - the next day. If you're not a pet owner, this might not resonate with you. But if you are, you can understand how devastating it is to learn that your best friend needs to have her leg amputated to survive.
She had her surgery and is doing remarkably well, all things considered. Rather than give up, she's finding ways to deal with her new reality. The picture above was taken the day after her surgery; she's standing on three legs eating her food. She needs to adjust a little more, but she's already walking on three legs. It's amazing how resilient she is and it reminded me of how important it is to never give up, regardless of what setbacks you experience
A heartfelt thanks to our wounded warriors
Watching my dog learn to live her life on three legs reminded me of how amazing our wounded warriors are. So many of them have sacrificed their bodies to the unspeakable horrors of war. Not to mention the pain of seeing and experiencing things that none of us should have to see or experience. And they have done it all for us.
We've all seen them back here in the States picking up their lives and moving forward. They are an inspiration to me and are truly heroes. I urge anyone reading this to help them if you can. Hire them, contribute to veterans charities or just give them a smile when you walk by. We owe them more than we can ever repay.
Life is bittersweet. It's beautiful and amazing, but into every life, a little rain must fall. Let's all take inspiration from those who have overcome so much and just kept their heads down and kept moving forward. Let's honor them by doing the same when we have personal, physical or professional setbacks in our life. And let's all try to be more compassionate. I wish everyone love and happiness this holiday season.
