Lessons from Life: The Value of My Insignificant Achievements

Life is often filled with significant accomplishments that we proudly share and celebrate, but sometimes the truly impactful moments are the small, seemingly insignificant ones. In this reflection, I’ll share five of my most modest yet meaningful achievements, along with the valuable lessons they teach us.

Survival against the Odds

My stay at UPMC Presby and Cleveland Clinic over the last 19 years is a remarkable survival story. These two hospitals, staffed by inept, maniacally hubristic, and drug-addicted medical personnel, is a testament to my resilience and strength. My fourth life, or perhaps, my second chance, is a profound affirmation of the will to live. Each day, I've turned survival into a daily miracle.

Helping a Stranger

Sometimes, the most significant moments in life come from the smallest acts of kindness. A few days ago, I gave my last dollar to a young African American woman and her son, enabling them to ride the bus home. This simple gesture reminded me that every act of compassion, no matter how small, can make a profound difference in someone else's life.

A Fruitful Marriage, Yet Marred

My marriage to husband number two fulfilled the promise of companionship and love but ended in misery. Despite the birth of my daughter, my relationship with him was nothing but turmoil and dysfunction. It taught me that sometimes, relationships can be a waste of time, and the cost can be too high. Nevertheless, it also underscored the importance of personal growth and resilience.

Running My First 5K Race

Winning my age class in a 5K race among only three or five competitors at a school fundraiser was a moment of pride. Despite the modest number of participants, this achievement highlighted the power of personal challenge and the triumph of small victories. It serves as a reminder that success is often in the journey, not just the destination.

Learning to Drive

At the age of 46, overcoming my fear of driving a car was a significant milestone. I passed my driving test on the first attempt, which boosted my confidence in both myself and my ability to navigate the world. While I may drive sometimes recklessly now, the realization that I can drive independently is a testament to personal growth and self-assurance.

Turn-of-the-Century Milestones

At the ripe age of 67, my joints are beginning to give me problems, especially when running. However, I recently ran in an emergency and Chariots of Fire came to mind. Despite the exaggeration, the courage to keep going and the feeling of relief when it was downhill were incredibly empowering.

Personal Growth and Reflection

Perhaps the most significant achievement among these is simply being recognized as a “Most Viewed Writer” in my local community. While this is a thread of my professional life, it underscores the notion that recognition and accomplishments come in all forms, and it is the collective of small victories that shape our lives.

In conclusion, life's insignificant achievements offer invaluable lessons. They remind us to value resilience, kindness, and personal growth, even in the face of challenges. Every small milestone, whether a survival story, a simple act of kindness, or learning a new skill, teaches us the importance of perseverance and the value of every experience.