I am happy to report that my first few days in Poland consisted of indulging in sleep, Polish food, family and the sea.  The first few days provided time to rest, reflect and begin to heal from some recent personal setbacks.  Lately life has been nothing short of a windy mountainous road with sharp curves that come out of nowhere and could easily send you spinning out of control and plummeting over steep cliffs.  Or you could describe it as an intense roller coaster ride.  Or if you want the strengths based way of looking at it, you could say it is an opportunity for personal growth, self-reflection and embracing vulnerability.

Unfortunately, another one of those sharp dangerous curves (or intense drops) has appeared again without a warning sign.  A dear family member is very ill.  We are waiting in that dark abyss for test results to inform us if it is something terminal or something that can be healed.  For the past few days, time has come to a complete standstill.  Waiting and not knowing are always the hardest parts.

Within this time, I have been introduced to the Polish healthcare system.  To say it has been a culture shock would be an understatement.  We Americans do not realize how good we have it.  Yes, healthcare in America is expensive and not everyone has insurance, but if you took one step inside a Polish hospital I can guarantee you that you would think twice before you complained about healthcare in America.

While I trust that this dear family member is getting the medical care they need, it is just  a completely different experience than it would be back home.  On the positive side, I am beyond grateful that we are here and not thousands of miles away on the other side of the ocean.  At this point in time, I have no idea how the summer will proceed to unfold.  For now we are exactly where we need to be.

My request of you is to pause for just a moment and send prayers, thoughts, love, wishes for good health and strength to someone who means the world to us.  Thank you.  You have no idea how much your thoughts and well wishes are appreciated.