Everybody dreams. 90+% forget them.* Not me.

Last night another variation on an old dream. In this version, I am President & CEO of Riverside and OhioHealth once again (left in 1995!) In the dream, I am 82, my current age, and am telling former SVP of HR Mark Evans that I feel fine and we can both do our jobs!

In Chapter 2 of the dream I am telling Mark, “It’s been too long since I’ve been up on the floors working with staff. I’ve got to get up there.”

Woke up, of course…And felt fine.

Long ago I reached the stages satisfied alumni achieve: Acceptance of the present and appreciation for opportunities long past.

I am very grateful.

The one stumbling block I have encountered you may have faced. I still have the energy (too much of it) and the clarity to do the job. My chronic impatience dilutes needed wisdom.

A bigger obstacle? NO one would hire an 82 year old unless, perhaps, they were running for President of the U.S.

I am glad for my Riverside dreams – waking or sleeping. These include memories of my old partners and even the occasional nightmares (e.g. the double murder of Joyce McFadden and Patricia Matix.)

Joy attends acceptance. Evil events will visit anyone who takes on a tough career.

That is why I extend, again, my profound thanks to every caregiver reading this. You gave so much of yourself to others!

Sweet dreams!

-Erie Chapman

Photo: Screenshot from my feature film, “Alex Dreaming” (2012) If you wish to support this journal go to www.eriechapmanfoundation.net.

*Studies show dream-forgetfulness occurs because awakening requires a lightning transition from sleep to “reality.” I have trained myself to hold onto the dreams – good or bad.