Today is the 11th day I've taken 60 mg a day of Prednizone, to reduce the inflammation caused by the sarcoidosis in my lungs. I do see some improvement. Last night, for instance, for several hours, I was able to breathe evenly and deeply without feeling an urge to cough! It has been more than a year since I experienced that! I simply sat and paid attention to the grace and blessing of relaxed breathing. What a gift.

My recovery is uneven, day-to-day. Early this morning I had a fever again. But, as the day goes on, I'm feeling a little better. It is hard not to feel discouraged. But my prayer is rich and deep: it is a matter of patience, of openness, of receiving the healing God is giving me, as it comes.

The dosage of Prednizone is due to be decreased to 40 mg per day soon. The only side effect of the steroid so far are periods of interrupted sleep. I am finding that the short stories of Alice Munro are the best way to relax into times of wakefulness. I hope you know of Alice Munro, who is a master of the short story. Nearly all of her stories are set in small towns or rural areas of Canada. Her subjects are all entirely ordinary people. The depth and force of each story is subtle and quiet. The reader needs to pause frequently, to realize what's going on! Each story is perfect for an hour of wakefulness, with only a lamp burning in the dark quiet, no other distractions. It's contemplative time.