On the Upside!

The last time I wrote a Blog, I was feeling pretty poorly. Fighting an injury and the public's general attitude toward those with disabilities was a lot for this 'do-gooder' gal to handle. Fortunately, I am feeling much better- physically and mentally. I've learned a lot and hope the lessons are ones I will keep close to my heart for eternity.

The most surprising lesson I have learned is that people really do tend to shy away from people with disabilities. I experienced this prejudice first hand when using a cane to walk my usual route with my dog, Zigi. I noticed that people approaching would look at me, look at the cane and look away. When close enough to pass by these people they would say hi to my Dog and I was lucky to get a nod from someone walking by looking at the ground.  This same group of people are those who I would generally smile and say hi to because they would be looking at me while walking by. Now that my knee is healing, I don't need the cane much and get lots of smiles and hellos from those walking by. I find it very odd and sad that disabilities are met with such discomfort. Our society is that way. It's not right, but it's true. A friend reminded me that as children we are taught 'not to stare' at those who are different from us, so I guess it only goes to reason why this behavior is so common. It still makes me sad, though, and I hope I can step up to be a better person remembering to take an extra minute to smile at someone with physical differences. I hope also, to include, options for all persons when writing about public places, parks, etc.

The second lesson I learned (yet again) is how precious good health is. I've always been blessed with great health, so I've always took it for granted. Losing the physical ability to walk correctly or easily for a while has really humbled me and given me a new outlook on slowing down a little bit to enjoy life more. I injured myself from overworking when my body was already showing signs of exhaustion- for two days! That's just plain silly.

I am a firm believer that life gives you what you need when you need it if you have a open mind and heart. I'm the first to admit I like to over achieve, everyday. When I don't over achieve, I feel the day wasn't used to its fullest and it upsets me. Perhaps this injury and all the time of thinking about it will help me lighten up and let go a little more....And well, maybe it will make me work harder to make up for lost time. One things for sure, I'm not going to run a marathon anytime soon.....