I was choking the other day. Really choking. I was sitting at home. Alone, of course, when suddenly I had what seemed to be a reflux issue. I'd had lots of these episodes back when I was in nursing school, but this time I really started couphing, gasping for air. I wasn't scared, then suddenly I looked at my bird and realized I could be lying there, unconcious or dead and there would be no one to care for him until it was too late.

I remember literally locking eyes with him and calling on God to save me. I made a promise to eat better if He did. Then everything suddenly was okay. Incredible. But this taught me a lesson. Many times I've heard that people live longer if they have someone in their lives. Now, I see it as having anything--including a bird. Like I said, I wasn't afraid, visions of seeing my husband. But then my little bird sat there, completly helpless, and I thought different.

So, to widows or widowers in our group--those new on this journey, those old on this journey--get a pet. Get something to love and care for. Something that depends on you. It doesn't have to be a dog. A cat, bird, rat, anything that will make you see a reason to live.

I'm not talking to any particular group. I'm not suicidal. I'm just a strong beliver in God and the Heaven that awaits me. I don't fear death, but I want the best for my little chipper, the little fellow that sings to me all day.

Tru