I recently bought several mega million lotto tickets. I rarely buy them but with the jackpot at $1.2 billion, I was ready to win.
I allowed myself to envision my response upon hearing I was the winner. I imagined taking a deep breath, calling my dearest friends for emotional support, and then logically figuring out how to claim the prize. Then I imagined how to spend the money! I’d lovingly support my family, friends, church, and community. I thought about what I would buy for myself. A new home? But I loved my mobile home. A new car? Well, my car could use new tires and a bit of touchup paint but I was perfectly happy with my 14-year-old hybrid. I imagined how I could invest some of the money to cover any future expenses, but I knew the majority I would give away.
On the evening of the drawing, I purposefully didn’t look at my tickets. I wanted to fall asleep envisioning a world where I supported kind, loving people and positive causes. I had sweet dreams.
The next morning, while having my coffee, the radio announced that the winning ticket was purchased in Illinois. For a second I actually was shocked that they didn’t say my state. After all the winning ticket must still be in my wallet, right?
After taking in reality, I laughed and realized I have everything I need: the love of family, friends, and pets; my health; my home in a supportive community; my healthy old car; and enough money to provide for my basic needs. I look out the window as the sun peeks through the morning fog. My 17-year-old dog snores at my side. I grin and realize I truly have won.
Ethel Landers
Arroyo Grande
This article appears in Aug 11-21, 2022.
In this time of seemingly endless whining, envy and resentment, it is refreshing to hear from someone who appreciates the good life that most of us have here in SLO. In the words of Sheryl Crow, happiness “isn’t getting what you want, but wanting what you got”.