Okay, almost 2 weeks ago, my 13-month old son was med-evac'd by helicopter from a close hospital to one about 35 miles away that had a PICU (Pediatrician's Intensive Care Unit). He was in really bad shape with enough difficulty that they had to funnel 70% helium with 30% oxygen through him for over a day to get the O2 circulating through his body. His "oxygenation" had gone down to 65%. He was released after a 10 day stay. During that time, I thought very little about work other than "this is going to put me way behind." But do you know what?
I didn't care
I had literally ratified a contract earlier that very morning that my son started turning purple by the time I had got him to the pediatrician's office (because we didn't know, I'd never been through this, it didn't seem that bad the day before, etc.). Exactly one week later to the day, we had to void the same contract because there were way too many issues with the house. And do you know what?
I didn't care
My wife would stay 2 nights, I would stay one because I insisted she take breaks. The only thing that was important was for my beautiful son to stay alive and get well. Even though I have an extremely supportive staff at the office, I lost the drive to try to make the deal work and to make money. I couldn't even think of what my next topic would be to continue my seeming ever slow progress on perfecting my "blogabilities." And do you know what?
I didn't care
My son is still weak but home with us now. He is gradually getting better. I am slowly able to concentrate on work again. I can see how the more you blog, the better you get at it. Since I won 3rd place on the recent "Give it your best shot " contest for us "Newbies," and literally since the day after that happened my son's life was in jeopardy in a way that makes me breathe a large sigh of relief whenever I think about it, my level of participation on Active Rain has wained. I thought about and realized what's most important in my life. Then I thought about my "standing" with these points we earn and priorities on AR and blogging, But do you know what?
I didn't care
My son is home again.
That is what is most important.
Once things are back in order, I'll be back. Meanwhile, and hear this - Just because I'm a little behind, I will not allow myself to get discouraged, and in spite of what life sometimes offers me. Better days are ahead. And do you know why?
Because I do care.