PURE ENJOYMENT EVEN WHEN YOU CAN’T SEE CLEARLY
While thoroughly enjoying a winter break at the beach, it dawned on me that I had my eyes closed as I felt the warmth of the sun on my skin, the breeze through my hair, the taste of salt on my lips and the smell of fresh air. NONE of which required my sight! It also occurred to me that during some of my most precious moments, I had my eyes shut - that first kiss from a soul mate, hearing beautiful music, praying and then, listening for answers to my prayers in silent meditation - all with my eyes shut! We CAN still enjoy life, even with poor vision. It also made me recall the article I wrote on Monet and Macular Degeneration - He declined cataract surgery for years because he liked painting what he was seeing - with cataracts! Everything flowed into each other beautifully. What kind of experiences do YOU still enjoy? What do you still look forward to hearing, feeling, smelling or tasting? Maybe our cup isn’t half empty - It’s half FULL! Linda Hoopes, Team Member
This is so good!! 
I can no longer make jewelry, but hopefully there is something artistic I can still do. I am thinking about going back into my artwork after many years, but would probably have to adopt another style. Thanks for reminding me of Monet and his vision problems. However it worries me how many years I have. I am afraid if both eyes are affected with CNV how I will cope. When I close my good eye things are very distorted. Both eyes would have vision distortion and everyone will look grotesque! If this happens even I will look grotesque in the mirror!
Can you think of anything worse that can happen to a person?
everything you said is true. I can’t see my own face except as a blur in the mirror. I have had to give up many of my hobbies but I tried to find joy in each day. When I worry about my future with GA I think of a young woman I know. She had both her eyes removed due to diabetes complications. Totally blind she lives and thrives alone. She has smart appliances she can use with verbal commands. She builds birdhouses with no vision at all. She has family assistance with transportation and shopping. Other than that she manages fine on her own. I hope you find a new style of painting you enjoy. If and when you need it every state has low vision rehabilitation. Blessings for you today 🤗. Kindly, Sharon Moore patient leader
That was a beautiful post! You are so right😀 thank you
