I had to go to London Bridge Hospital for my bi-annual check-up, which is a hassle. It hangs over my head like a dark cloud – ever since my heart went into ventricular fibrillation four years ago, I am very conscious of my frailties: I exercise religiously, manage my stress and take a good (obsessive) care of myself.

“Don’t you wish it didn’t happen?” My friend Bridget asked over lunch. I thought about it and answered her, no.

For darkness itself is a gift. It made me grateful for what I have every single day, thankful that I live to see another sunrise, thunderclouds, blazing sunshine, sunset and all the nuances in between. I have lived and loved so deeply since then ❤

Photo: rain clouds over the Thames. M