My Stroke, My Gift

As I’m writing this article I’m flooded with emotions. I was given a new lease on life. Ten years ago on 10/10/10, I fell while getting out of bed and couldn’t get back up on my feet. My left limbs were paralyzed. I had a TIA – Transient Ischemic Attack. In complete denial that it was indeed a stroke at age 56, I dragged the time and my left foot all day until I eventually went to the hospital. I’m grateful to have regained full mobility after staying there for 5 days.
I felt that there was something greater than myself that put me to the test. I was granted a life extension. Unharmed for a reason, I knew I better not take this gift for granted and begin to live my life to its fullest. I wake up grateful for the use of my head and hands with an intention to make each day count. With this new awareness and evolving wisdom of higher consciousness, I had a clear vision and quest for living a more meaningful life. My sons were all grown up; I could be the co creator of my new Genesis. As a wife, mother and teacher, I became more passionate, yet kinder. I realized the impact I have on others’ lives. In my mindfulness class, I learnt to live in the here and now, letting go of worries of how things would or should be. My mind was open to what’s ahead, focusing on what makes me happy, believing a whole new narrative and removing restricting beliefs and old patterns of behavior that no longer served me. I learned that when I seriously work on achieving the goals I set for myself, the universe works with me.
No longer was I writing just for the drawer, I became a conduit, writing my short stories, poems and inspiring articles for the local magazines and various newspapers in English and Hebrew. I also published a book of the poetry I had been writing for decades. I became a multifaceted artist exhibiting my vibrant paintings, sculptures and mosaics throughout my community. I’ve been reclaiming my life, enjoying each moment, whether watching a divine sunset or painting my own colorful one.
None of us can predict what tomorrow may bring, but we can thrive to improve our surroundings and ourselves. I’m a living testimony that dreams do come true. I feel truly blessed, mostly, to witness my loved ones evolve and bloom on their own merits. I’m grateful to all who help me be all I can be. As long as the almighty, my creator, allows me, I’ll continue to enjoy life and make a positive impact on others. Resolve to live every day as if it’s your last. Life is definitely worth it.
Naomi Young is an educator of Jewish studies and a Bar/ Bat mitzvah tutor in Santa Clarita for 38 years. She’s also a published writer and an artist. Contact her at naomiyoung7@yahoo.com Visit her art website at www.naomiyoung.com