On my mind

I have alot of things on my mind today.

My grandmother passed away a few days ago. We were sad, but happy for her...that she is no longer in pain and is now with my papaw...the love of her life. She was in advanced alzeimer's, so she didn't know any of us, but it's still sad. And today my uncle, who was recently diagnosed with cancer, is having emergency surgery in the morning. A life threatening surgery. He has 3 children, my cousins who I grew up with. It will be devastating if we lose him. He was second in command at NASA until her retired....we're very proud of all his accomplishments in the field of science. So, my family is heading to Florida to be with him during his surgery. And today, a fellow blogger friend, got her referral from Russia and I had a pang of jealousy.....mmmm.....not really jealously, more like my patience is waning. I know girls take double and triple the time.....I'm just ready to get her home. I just kindof had the blues today....there is all this suffering in the world and not so much we can do about it. My child is alive and breathing...and suffering...and bureaucracy and red tape are prolonging her suffering. But, I must wait.

So, I've been thinking alot about parenting too. It is going to be a challenge raising a well-adjusted, happy, appreciative, kind child in the world today. Hard to raise a good sport, a good friend, a good soul. I have seen first hand how a parent's actions are quickly absorbed and integrated into their children.....good and bad. I want to set not just a good example, but a great, fine example. I see lots of good examples around me and alot of bad ones. I want to be a good one.