<p>Many of on CC are aware of the health, family, and emotional challenges that some of us have faced. These challenges profoundly change us and in a sense give us insight into life that we might not have otherwise. Whether the challenge is our children, cancer (or other life changing illnesses), death of a parent, spouse, or even more profound a loss: a child, we emerge on the other side changed.</p>
<p>The other day a friend of mine, yes, very prone to bragging, was giving me her vacation schedule for this year. After telling me about their trip (in detail) and then asking me what we were doing for summer (Europe…just a general…Europe) she asked, “What are you doing in 2012?”</p>
<p>I’ve learned not to plan that far in advance I answered. I’m just planning this year. My answer was met with silence. She had, earlier in the conversation refused an invitation to our holiday party because we invite another couple that they no longer friends with. Why? A “bad” line call in a game of tennis ended that friendship.</p>
<p>I used to have 2/4/5 year plans. Life is short. Now, I’m thinking about today. And I always say, “I love you” (and mean it) when I end a conversation with one I love. </p>
<p>Has anyone else found themselves changed by a life’s event? And how has your perspective changed? And I think that I meant to say insight…not wisdom.</p>