_{2020 has come at us hard. It’s been a hell of a year, and as we continue into the best season (honestly its the only time of the year I don’t sweat in sweat pants), take time this week to reflect on all you have and how that wealth can make each day better.}

By James Johnson

Another week has passed, as the fall term progresses. Welcome to another Monday, students.

The week in review continues as we watch the wheels of American progress leave the reality rails down south. Our neighbours have come to a crossroads, that much is certain. We will have to see if strong leadership, ethical platforms– and (most importantly) voter turn out –serve to reunite the peoples of the once great united states of America. Whatever route they decide on November 3rd, growth from all sides is going to be necessary if there is to be any healing between the rifts

As for me, well I’ve had better weeks. I’ve been waylaid by severe nerve pain caused by bone spurs on my cervical spine. For weeks now, shoulder pain mixed with neck pain and arm numbness have given me nothing but grief. The total amount of reading and writing that I am required to complete this term is intensive, even by my standards. But sitting at the desk and typing is agony.

The only peace from the gnawing comes from sleep which is hard to attain. The pain is unrelenting. After two visits to the ER and all the scans and tests one could image (thanks universal healthcare), I got a somewhat worrisome prognosis. I’m working through it and its not slowing me or the dog down on our sunrise walks along the boardwalk. Everyday is a little bit better. I have a new found respect for the dignity others show when living with chronic pain. It is not easy. I am not going to let this become my new normal however, so I have a tough row to hoe.

My son experienced his first week back-to-school and he says he doesn’t mind the mask wearing and the small group settings. Luckily his class size is down to 15, rather than 30. Again, we live with these changes and every day is a little bit better. The numbers of infected continue to rise as the second wave looms. But I count our blessings that we will be able to comfortably isolate ourselves until we are better, should we too become sick at some point. This is a comfort many can’t afford. It took great sacrifice and hard work to get to where we are today. So I remain grateful each day I have left. For now, we live each day as best we can. Our son is looking forward to resuming swimming and children’s yoga at our local rec centre. I hope he has lots of fun as he develops new skills and works on the ones he was developing pre-lockdown!

As for the Goddess Anastasia, she is kicking ass in the hospital day in and day out. She’s earning her stripes and contributing to the community. Its fascinating watching a career, one entirely earned by hard work and truly deserved, come to fruition before your eyes. She has worked her buns off for this and she is rocking it.

As for the coursework this term. I am doomed. I have four heavy classes that I am desperately trying to find the time and focus to work on. It is not going to be an easy fall term! I need to finish strong so going into placement looks nice and clean. I hope to impress my way into a permanent position, after all, which is the goal of most information professionals interested in paying off their mortgages and car payments.

Stay tuned for some more articles coming at you guys this week.

Thanks for reading