A Chink in My Invincibility Layer

I’ve lived with the belief my entire life that bad things don’t happen to me, they might happen to other people, but not to me. I call that inherent “protection” I’ve always felt my invincibility layer. I’ve also always assumed that if I have a setback, or a temporary lack of prosperity, that the situation will reverse. Many people don’t think the same way. They live with a lifelong fear of illness or failure or lack of money.

I’m not saying that I’ve lived the perfect life where nothing’s ever gone wrong, because I’ve certainly had my share of heartache and heartbreak. I’m also not saying that I take foolish risks because I think nothing bad can happen, I’m actually fairly cautious. I’ve also been incredibly blessed – I’ve always been healthy and have never sustained a serious injury, and fortunately the same is true for my kids. I’ve always had a job and have been able to live in safe and comfortable surroundings. For all that, I am extremely grateful.

But recently, I developed a chink in my invincibility layer. A month or so ago, my dad texted me and told me