Life is not a rehearsal

Life is awfully short, and rarely turns out as we'd planned. As we grow older, time appears to speed up somehow and the years fly past. Life is not a rehearsal, so don't waste a moment standing in the wings waiting for the perfect moment to act. Grab your script and if you lose your lines, improvise, adapt to your changing circumstances and live in the moment. Parkinson's may grab the audience's full attention and remain centre stage, but if you don't let it get the better of you, you'll receive a standing ovation from those who love you. Make the most out of each day, stop what you are doing to give your children the full attention they deserve, if you can manage to steal an extra kiss from your spouse then sneak one in. Make each moment count and stay positive. Instead of thinking about the things you don’t want, such as Parkinson's, (and I can't think of anything I want less than this!) concentrate on the things you do want, and be grateful for the blessings we often take for granted. Having no regrets is the finale we all wish for, and if fortunate to be given an encore, grab it with both hands. Don't let any chance of happiness pass you by just because you suffer from ill health. Make the decision to be happy, optimistic and hopeful. If you are still rehearsing; stop and get your act together for life is not a rehearsal, the show must go on.

My weekly article for The Huffington Post entitled "Weathering Parkinson's" is up on-line if you'd like to take a look. Wishing you all a lovely weekend and good health!