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Re-entering Life Requires More Attention to Details

Life lesson: Pay attention.
Caution Sign


The sun was shining this morning and the wind was mild. The flag was barely moving. This was the first day in a long time the winds were quiet and high winds are predicted again tomorrow.


I had been waiting for a decent day to paint the inside of the drawers of the chest cabinet, so today was the day.


The part that I don’t like about painting, other than the painting itself, is covering up all the parts not to be painted.


But I did the covering up, and when that was done, I set about spraying the drawers. Then I decided to read the can to find out about drying time and all that other information. To my surprise, it said to clean up with mineral spirits.


Mineral spirits! I thought this was latex paint. I had counted on it for fast drying and reduced lingering odor.


This seems to be happening to me lately. If I buy several cans of goods, sometimes when I get home, I find one is something else. I didn't look at every can, I just shuffled them into the cart. It seems like I should have at least caught the odd one at the checkout.


With my spouse having dementia for several years, it is a concern. Am I developing this dreadful disease, just getting senile or maybe not paying attention?


I have chosen to decide I was not paying attention. Having never been a detailed person, it would seem an acceleration of this lifelong affectation.


It is a concern, however. Not paying attention can be a lot more serious than buying the wrong kind of paint or canned vegetables. As I pursue re-entering life, I place myself in more and more situations that demand attention.


What about the speed limit?

What about school zones and crosswalks?

What about that tree that has been there for years?

What about steps and stairs and curbs?

What about locking all the doors?

What about looking around the parking lot before getting into the car?

What about posting the last check written?

What about letting the dog out?

What about that pan on the stove?

What about those leftovers in the refrigerator?

What about that faucet? Is it turned off?

What about that slippery spot in the shower?


There are many more “what abouts.” The important thing is that maybe they are not a part of our inclusive sensory input, as when we were younger. Our vision, hearing and taste has become less acute and our reaction time is slower.


I guess I had better be paying more attention. If I drive any slower, that guy behind me can just blow his horn. Maybe I won’t even hear him with my less acute hearing.


Let me know how you are doing. I care.


Sincerely,

Lynn Brooke


© 2023 Our New Chances

Photo Credit: © 2023 Rachel Gareau

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