What a great question to ask ourselves. Very appropriate to what we've heard in the news, especially in the last couple of days.

2008 has been the worst year I've ever had in relation to my health. I am recovering from the 5th surgery on my left knee. I took so much time off work, they had to put me on a general leave of absence. In effect, I lost my position. In spite of a year long hiring freeze, my employer has just been given the go ahead to replace me. It's bittersweet for me. I'm sorry to lose the job but now they will be getting some much needed help.

After all that this year has given me, I have to still be thankful that I still have a car that I can make the payments on. I have a job waiting for me when I return-not the same one but one similiar to that one. I can still pay my bills without difficulty. I am in good health as far as everything goes except the knee. I don't know what else I would need to show me that I'm doing well in spite of the problems. I always say it could be alot worse.

I feel really bad for the people that are losing their homes, are in debt to the max with their credit cards, etc. I am so thankful that I can also make my mortgage payment and my credit cards are minimal amounts if any. I'm a lucky person.

Not being able to walk and get around is difficult but that's the only thing that's different than it was five years ago. The best part is that this dilemma will hopefully not last much longer.

Five years from now, I feel like I'll be able to catch up on time I've lost and be a totally new person!!