They warned me about this

I was in my office at the lab again today working on lectures for tomorrow and Wednesday.  I wonder what I was thinking when I had some doubts as to whether I would be busy when I retired. A lot of people, including my sponsor, warned me that I would be busier after I retired than when I was working. I think that he might be right. I haven't had any time away from the office, except for last Friday.  The lectures are something that I obligated myself to before I left employment, and I'm enjoying putting them together.  So I'm not complaining, just chuckling at the irony of the situation. 

Tonight was my homegroup meeting.  As I've mentioned before this meeting is out in the country, in a beautiful little town.  I like the drive out there.  It takes me through the watery marsh habitats that I love, past some hay fields, and country roads that are overhung by a canopy of oak trees draped in Spanish moss.  Like I've written before, this feels like home to me. 

Before the meeting, I finished up the twelve steps with a sponsee.  I've been working with him for about a year.  He has made remarkable strides with recovery.  It makes me so glad to see someone who was in so much pain a year ago be able to change behavior and outlook.  His wife has now gotten a sponsor and is working the steps in AA.  He thinks her action has been influenced by his change in attitude.  I am glad that he is doing well.

It means a lot to pass on to another what my sponsor passed on to me.  He is going into the hospital for some surgery tomorrow.  The surgery will require some rehabilitation.  Tonight we hung close to him and wished him the best and God's blessing for tomorrow.  I am grateful to have this gentle man who is a gentleman in my life.  And I know that many people will be there to visit him and to offer support after the surgery is over and rehab has begun.  We all have each other's backs through thick and thin.  Some  times I forget that the fellowship is a big family, even though my biological family is nearly non-existent.  We are there for each other, bound not by blood but certainly by love. That is a source of great comfort. 

I will check in with all your blogs when I get a break.  In the mean time, wishing each of you peace.