I was at a luncheon with a group of people today and it reminded me I had written this a few weeks ago. It’s funny that I forgot about it but extremely happy it was “reminded” to me. ( All the gramatical errors in one sweet sentence, lol)

Alzheimer’s gives you the power, let’s say,  to stay in the present, it’s what you might call “mainstream”, in a manner if speaking. Our impulses keep us, at least in the earlier stages, present.  Our regrets fitter away, our thoughts of “what if” or “I should have” no longer hold us emotionally embedded to our past. In the big picture, that’s pretty damn awesome!

In today’s mental health movement, as well as physical health movement, that is what we, humans,  strive for.  To release the hold your past has on you so you can grow and flourish, so you can reach your goals, surpass negativity and self doubt. You can self advocate for a stronger self. To forgive fully of yourself and others. Powerful and proven. If you have the courage to empower yourself to release the fears & emotions that lock you in a place  that you no longer need, do it. Be brave. Love yourself enough to be happy.

Alzheimer’s, as well as many other forms of dementia, forces your hand.  We are in the present, sometimes only moment by moment, unintentionally.  Our past in many forms has never existed. We are in the present experiencing the here and now.

At this point of my journey, I stay in the day or recent days. I no longer actively think of what happened yesterday, during the week or even last month, it just doesn’t come in to play; but it’s still there. Subtle things will remind me of the adventures I’ve had, but I don’t concentrate or consciously think of them.  I remember them when I am asked about them, but not consciously.  It’s odd.

Being fully aware that days past and your life is a conscious thing; it’s just there, in your mind tucked just behind. For me, the door closes, unlocked, leaving the days available to retrieve and remember, but only when asked. It’s kind of surreal.  I’m not sure how long this will last, or when it started happening, but I’m ever so grateful. I would like to think it’s a super power of some kind. Lol!  Living with no regret. Unburden. Amazing!

Realizing this pattern was a big thing for me. It seems I have alot of epiphany moments,  with many things,  realizing that I don’t even know the things I’m forgetting until someone reminds me about a time and place or situation.  I don’t always recall it,  I laugh out loud and always ask for the story. Totally makes my day!

Staying in the present is a healthy action for everyone. You love more, you see more, you feel more, you actually do see the little things. Gratitude grows, and you learn how to truly be thankful. 

Take the time to live in these moments, it’s good for you.  Ill health can compound your inability to care for yourself, the one person you sometimes forget to unconditionally love and treat well. We’ve all been there.

For those reading this as carepartner s for your loved ones, try to understand how the present is perceived by your family member.  Acknowledge that the moment is real and time is no longer equal to your experiences. Stay present and remain patient. 

For those reading this who live with the many forms of dementia, I send you my love and encouragement. You are acommplishing big things every day.

Here are a few things I’ve found to be important:

1. Not everyone will understand your journey. Stay true to yourself and follow your own path regardless.

2. Embrace the idea of missing out. You can’t do everything at the same time, so focus on those few things that matter to you the most, one thing at a time.

3. Life is a running river whose route can’t be predicted. Learn to flow with it and let it take you to interesting new places.

4. The world is to a great extent a reflection of your mind. The more you understand yourself, the more you’ll be able to understand your world.

5. Possessions can end up possessing you. Emotionally detach yourself from them to regain your peace of mind.

6.  Health is your real wealth. Pay attention to your needs and do your best to serve them.

7. Wishful thinking is a waste of time.

8.  Don’t believe what anyone tells you. Do your own research to find out the truth for yourself.

9.  Perfection is like the horizon: the more you try to approach it, the further away it recedes.

10. Don’t try to force change upon others. Rather, inspire them to change by your actions.

11. The past is gone, the future isn’t here yet, and the only moment you ever have is the now.

12. You are what you eat. Eat plenty of whole, organic, plant-based foods.

13. Play as much as you can. It will help you reconnect with your inner child and rediscover the incredible joy of laughter.

14. Concentrate on depth, not width. What matters isn’t how many things you do, but how deep you go into them.

15.  Happiness doesn’t mean having no problems. It means having the skills to effectively deal with them.

Just a few things I’ve been pondering, a few things I read. Hope they inspire you, especially if you are caught up with life. Perspective.

This life, although different from anything we ever expected is great. Follow your heart and capture your dreams. Keep your attitude sassy and smart. Improve your argument, don’t raise your voice. Educate yourself and those that are willing to listen, but don’t waste time trying to do so with those who cannot see the bigger picture of your substantial life. SASSAFRAS!

What if one day you go to read this bloggy thing and it makes no sense. 

It could happen

What if one day you read this bloggy thing and you say, ” what the hell is she talking about?”.

That could happen.

Funny isn’t it?  Just a random thought I had. Wanted to share it .

Maybe I should call myself Jan-Random-Bar-Berrra.  It’s catchy.

That,  too, could happen.  

Hahaha! Hope your day is fun!…… And random.

Here is a great song by Joss Stone, enjoy!

Stay well my friends, Jan