I Like Lemons, what else you got?

For the last week or so, I've been thinking about a quote that I read in the first of the "Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants" novels a number of years ago.  Each chapter in that book started with a quote of some sort or other, and one chapter started with the following quote:

"If life hands you lemons, say, 'I like lemons.  What else you got?'"  (Henry Rollins)

Along the same lines, the following quote appeared in my email this morning:

"If life gives you limes, make margaritas." (Jimmy Buffett)

I've definitely had my share of lemons (or limes!) this last week.  Like I wrote yesterday, it has seemed at times that the world has been conspiring against me.  I was thinking about that supposed conspiracy again this morning as I trekked through the inch or so of snow that fell overnight again.

And yet, that quote has come to mind over and over.

"I like lemons.  What else you got?"

Let's ignore for a moment that I actually don't really like lemon (or limes, or margaritas for that matter!), and focus on the sentiment.

Even in this, find joy.

Even in this, give thanks.

In my saner moments, I can do that.

I had been contemplating reducing my driving as much as possible anyway, because driving stresses me out, and because city transit really is better for the environment.

For the first time in my life, I'd been enjoying taking the train and bus.  Finding transit a good place to think and rest and read.

The day before I got the call about my insurance, I bought an iphone, to make transit an even better experience.

I've felt cushioned at moments, from this latest blow.

Sort of at peace.  In a moment when being at peace doesn't make sense.

That being said, my mom is back in town, and tonight, (if last night with my baby brother is any indication), I'll likely cry my eyes out in disappointment and exhaustion.  Probably as soon as I hear her voice and collect a hug.

And then, then I'm going to pull myself back together, and try again to adopt the "I like lemons, what else you got?" attitude that I feel like Jesus has been placing before me for the last week and a bit.

I'll remind myself that every day is a day closer to feeling physically better as my medication has time to readjust my hormone levels to a manageable state.  I'll remind myself that I'm only a couple days from a weekend, and I can do some sleeping and resting.  I'll choose again to celebrate the happy things.  And I'll probably pull my iphone out of my pocket and check my email or facebook.  Because doing that on the go, anywhere I am, is still bringing a guaranteed smile to my face.