{"id":39770,"date":"2025-11-10T12:19:31","date_gmt":"2025-11-10T17:19:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hydroassoc.org\/?p=39770"},"modified":"2025-11-10T12:21:17","modified_gmt":"2025-11-10T17:21:17","slug":"attitude-of-gratitude-staying-positive-with-nph","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hydroassoc.org\/attitude-of-gratitude-staying-positive-with-nph\/","title":{"rendered":"Attitude of Gratitude: Staying Positive with NPH"},"content":{"rendered":"

By: Dorothy Sorlie, HA Volunteer<\/strong><\/p>\n

An Attitude of Gratitude Through Challenges<\/h2>\n

\"Dorothy\"<\/p>\n

Life has a way of presenting challenges that test our patience, strength, and spirit. For Dorothy, living with osteoarthritis, heart concerns, and normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH)<\/a> means facing daily obstacles that could easily overshadow the good. Yet instead of allowing difficulties to define her days, she has embraced a powerful mindset\u2014an attitude of gratitude. By choosing to focus on blessings, both big and small, Dorothy reminds us that even in life\u2019s hardest seasons, there is always something to be thankful for.<\/span><\/p>\n

Choosing Gratitude Every Day<\/h2>\n

<\/b>\u201cAttitude of Gratitude is my \u2018go to\u2019 each day.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

When I reflect on the most difficult time in my life, the death of my 17-year-old son from a brain tumor<\/a>,\u00a0 the most important lesson I learned is knowing when a problem is a problem. During that period, I was also navigating a difficult marriage, raising two teenagers, managing a challenging job, and caring for both my mother and mother-in-law, who were seriously ill.<\/span><\/p>\n

Looking back, I realize I made it through with strong faith and the unwavering support of caring friends and colleagues. Now, when I pause and look at today\u2019s \u201cissues,\u201d I see that they\u2019re not problems at all, but rather gifts\u2014blessings and opportunities to contribute to someone, somehow.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Finding Light in the Pain<\/h2>\n

Extensive osteoarthritis owns my body. When pain demands my full attention, I stop and count the areas with no pain\u2014and they always win first place. Gratitude!\u00a0My back is a total disaster, but I have no headache, my feet don\u2019t hurt, and if I walk, my back will feel better.\u00a0 So, I forge ahead. And guess what\u2014it usually works.\u00a0Not always, but usually.<\/span><\/p>\n

Transforming Mundane Moments
\n<\/b><\/h2>\n

When I wake and think of my day, I repeatedly groan at the obligations and commitments ahead of me. Then I imagine life if I couldn\u2019t engage at all. Gratitude!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

I have several longtime friends who either have a difficult life or are in assisted living or memory care. Often I hesitate to visit, but I know that if my very sweet dog comes with me, he\u2019ll bring smiles not only to my friends, but also to anyone else he eagerly and gently approaches.<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Strength Through Reflection<\/h2>\n

\"Dorothy<\/b>My attitude needs consistent maintenance. What is my life? Yes, there are challenges: osteoarthritis, a heart condition, NPH concerns, and age. But there are many positives: a secure and loving environment, sufficient food, good family and friends, excellent medical care, and my strong faith.<\/span><\/p>\n

Each morning, my husband Jim and I begin our day with two cups of excellent coffee, meaningful reading, and prayers for others and our world. We end the day with prayers of gratitude and for guidance in how we live each day.<\/span><\/p>\n

Gratitude as a Guiding Philosophy<\/h2>\n

<\/b>Adopting an attitude of gratitude means consistently choosing to focus on what\u2019s good, even in life\u2019s messier moments. It\u2019s not about ignoring problems\u2014it\u2019s about recognizing blessings and appreciating the many positive aspects of each day.<\/span><\/p>\n

Carrying Gratitude Forward<\/h2>\n

So, as I continue life, I must monitor my attitude, acknowledge the positives, and count the blessings. Gratitude! Attitude of Gratitude is my \u201cgo to\u201d each day.<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Maintaining an Attitude of Gratitude is contagious for many \u2013 try it.\u00a0 You will be surprised.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n\r\n

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