Benjamin Franklin once wrote, “Dost thou love life, then do not squander time for that’s the stuff life is made of.” While this quote appeared in 'Poor Richard's Almanack,' around 1746, it resonates with me as it were yesterday. You see a year ago I suffered a (TIA) transient ischemic attack or what is known as a mini-stroke.  A TIA occurs when platelets that are dislodged travel through the bloodstream to block a blood vessel within the brain, and the supply of oxygen is cut off to an area of the brain. In an attempt to repair or "patch" this defect, the end result is a temporary blockage of blood flow. Unlike the effects of a Stroke which are often permanent, the symptoms of a TIA often last less than five minutes. What makes it particularly scary is you may not know that you have suffered one, thus not seek needed medical attention.

While the diagnosis came as a surprise, somewhere in the back of my mind I knew that I was a candidate. After all, African Americans are more prone to stroke than other races. I suffer from hypertension, but faithfully take my medication. Weight also plays a role. Granted my once brick house figure today is a mansion with a carport, but long before my stroke episode I had committed to eating better and to exercising more.

Thankfully regaining my strength has been the only residual from this health scare. Still, having experienced a TIA has had one lasting effect. First, it has made aware that I am not immortal, thus I feel more self-protective of my dreams, needs and desires. Secondly, if anything good has come out of it, it has been the reaffirmation of my commitment to living life to the fullness every day. It has also reaffirmed my zeal for finding my truth. 
So starting today I pledge to only do the things that bring me joy. Remember, saying no to things that you don’t want to do, will free up time to do the things that you want to do. I pledge to reconnect with old friends and family and soon. We all have a tendency to put things off until later if ever. Suffering a TIA showed me how quickly things can change.

Lastly, I commit to continuing to fulfill my life’s purpose which is to write. Everyone has a soul purpose. The difficult task for many of us is discovering exactly what ours is. Perhaps like me you have always fantasized about writing the next bestseller. Or perhaps slashing paint on a blank canvas appeals to you? I am a witness that as long as you are alive, it is never too late to fulfill your dream. 

Finally, listen to your own heart. While friends and family may love us, often they can’t see beyond our current reality. Suffering a mini-stroke has made me realize I have too much I still want – no – need to do. Indeed, Marcel Proust said it best, that “The voyage of discovery is not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes.