It's a great day ......

For those of us in health care, especially those of us working in hospice or nursing homes, it is important to keep in mind the 3rd principle of Reiki, to "be Grateful Just For Today." Life is a gift, it may not always be exactly as we would like, but it remains precious. And few people personified that spirit more than Badger Bob Johnson (1931-1991)

"Badger Bob" was a hockey coach, and for most of his careers was in less than glamorous jobs. He led the Wisconsin Badger hockey team to NCAA championships, and had the difficult honor of coaching the US national team, at a point where the US team was not an international hockey power. Later in life, he was hired to the big time, to coach one of the NHL's weaker franchises at the time, the Calgary Flames. There was a quote attributed to a friend after a 9-0 loss in the midst of a long losing streak, that, if someone saw "Badger Bob" they would not know how badly things were going, he always accentuated the positive, and his catchmark phrase was "It's a Great Day to Play Hockey."

In 1990 he became the coach of the Pittsburgh Penguins and led them to the Stanley Cup, the NHL Championship, the cumination of his dreams. But shortly thereeafter, it was found that he had a brain cancer, and he died in November 1991. Through all his challenges, he retained his remarkable good spirit, and sent a message to his Team, urging them on, and reminding them that every day, "was a great day to play hockey."

By avoiding anger at his fate, by renouncing worry for the unknown he was facing, by being greatful for the opportunities and joys that he had been given along the way, Badger Bob, never attuned to Reiki - was emulating its highest values. By trying hard in his declining state, and even then sending a kind message to his team, he was approaching transition in a positive way, and living rather than simply suffering and waiting to die.

Remember in your work and in your life, every day is a great day!