Last week I climbed a mountain and ended up at about 58 feet above sea level. I was in the Dead Sea region of Israel which is the lowest spot on earth.

Do you know the first thing that came into my mind when I reached to top of Mount Masada? “I just hiked up this mountain in Israel and six years ago I needed a mobility chair to get around.”

The flat top of Masada was once an elaborate, luxurious fortress built by Herod the Great. Then, after his time, it became the last holdout for around 1000 Jewish zealots rebelling against Roman taxation.

The history was fascinating and the archeological digs in progress were giving us clear pictures of life 2000 years ago.

Standing there knowing I was likely standing in the same place David stood at different times, calling it a fortress and refuge, made Psalms more real.

In this spot where David reflected on God’s provision and rescue, all I could think of was how He has been the fortress and refuge in my life. My liver disease battle was intense but my fortress was strong.

I couldn’t believe I was actually standing on top of Masada. I couldn’t believe I was actually in Israel. It was another reminder of the miracle of my transplant journey.

Every day is indeed a bonus day.

Life is good. My biggest challenge is that I am growing so tired of catching every cold and virus going around. I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired, but, it’s better than being dead!

I’m a people person so the standard “avoid crowds” advice we immunosuppressed folks get just doesn’t work for me. Without people, I get lonely and depressed. People energize me. Going to church fuels my faith and renews my purpose. Withdrawing from people isn’t why I got a transplant!

So, sniffles, coughs and Sudafed are my winter reality. Hand sanitizer and Clorox wipes are my pals.

If you’re discouraged waiting for transplant or your recovery is going more slowly than you want, please keep pushing on. Life can be good again. I’m doing things I never imagined possible. Last week I rode a camel in the Negev Desert of Israel with new Bedouin friends!

Every day is a bonus day.