Madison Sanders Writes

Image Credit: ©  Alexander Limbach  via Dreamstime For the past week or so, my thoughts have been all over the place. I haven't really had anything to write. That always bothers me. Then, the phrase "Focus and filter" came to mind. I thought, That is exactly what I need to do! Instead of letting questions and frustrations swirl around in my head, I need to stay focused. Today I choose to focus on what I am grateful for. I am going to focus on the fact that my basic needs are provided for. I have food, clothing, shelter, and a way to get from place to place. I am going to focus on the fact that my health is good. I don't have to go to the doctor several times a week like in years past. I am going to focus on the fact that I am more mobile. I am able to move around more and sit up for longer periods of time. I am going to focus on the fact that my mind is sharp. I am able to research things and help other people in the process. I am going to filt

Several months ago, mom and I were in a restaurant. There was a large family sitting near us. The dad wanted to watch the football game while eating, so the waitress was busy trying to get to the right channel. His teenage son said, "Dad, we've got the game on." The dad barely acknowledged him.  As we ate, I heard the mom getting frustrated with the baby. But then, I heard something else. Distinctive talking. Proper and business like.  I told my mom it sounded like someone was having a conversation. Sure enough, I turned around to see the dad talking into his headset. Through that, I heard the son say, "Dad." No response. "Dad," this time in a firmer tone. "Dad!" Still nothing. "Daaad." There was a desperation in the teenage boy's voice now. He wanted to share something with his dad. I think his dad mumbled something to him, but he never gave him his full attention. All of his attention was fo