The week before Christmas I took a break away from home. It was not planned or expected. In fact it was not to a location many would choose. It was a 3 day break at our local hospital. 

I was admitted with a stomach bug that had been rumbling on for 6 days. The A&E department was heaving but I was still able to find two rays of positivity. At the reception desk I was greeted by a youngish lady with a lovely welcoming smile. I mentioned it to her and she said thank you and produced another one!

I sat down and resigned myself to a long wait. After a while a man sat down next to me and we started chatting. We quickly realised we had a very similar rather ridiculous SOH. For example, having viewed the glum and painful faces around the waiting room we tried to think of ways of producing some cheer. I suggested leading a carol singing session but my friend said he would walk out! His name was Arthur and we spent a very humorous unforgettable twenty minutes together. 

Later that day I was transferred to the Acute Medical Unit and welcomed by a nurse with another lovely beaming smile. We got on well especially when she gave me a small bag and asked me to try them on! It contained a pair of red… socks embossed with small white squares. They were warm and slip resistant. We laughed!  

Now I am not suggesting a hospital visit is always a bundle of fun. However, sometimes it pays to actively seek the more positive moments. It has been said many times before but there is truth in the old saying “Laughter is the best medicine.”  

You may recall from my last Post on 23 December I was anticipating a luxury Christmas break away. Well it proved to be the “Ultimate Anti Climax”. Following my discharge from A&E I felt better but then I developed a hacking cough, breathlessness and muscle aches. Mrs T followed suit and by Christmas Day we were good for nothing. The cancellation was heart breaking.

So I am left with hopes for the New Year: 

- The shortest day has passed and the days get longer every day.

- Nature is getting ready to burst forth. In fact I can see the tips the some daffodil bulbs ready to face the world.

- The smiling faces of my colleagues at the local bowling club. Oh, I have missed them, but the big reunion will take place in late February at the AGM. 

- Moodscope. I will continue to join with others to enable this wonderful community to flourish.

Teg

A Moodscope member