I walk faster than a 75 year old. That may not sound like much, but it's inspiring to me. As I left the sauna today, I secretly raced a man while making my way to the parking lot. I love the old people at the Y; how they laugh, play cards, complain about medical procedures. I see myself in them--sometimes aspiring to be them; lifting weights, jogging, making the best of it..despite crunked up joints or better judgement.
There's so much to be learned from experience and pain. It's not enjoyable, but it's rich and oddly fulfilling. It reminds of the first rock wall I climbed. It was during a team building exercise and I was the last to go. Halfway up, I got stuck; my short legs unable to reach the right foothold. It hurt to stretch. The pain was awful. Going down was not an option. Going up seemed impossible.
Below, everybody just looked up and cheered. Occasionally, the right person would say the right thing. "Don't give up." "You can do this." Then...the words that mattered... "You're stronger than that wall."
It took a long time, but I made it. The climb a reminder of beauty, joy, and perseverance. The struggle now a thing of the past. Several times, I wanted to quit. I even begged to come down. Luckily, my handlers didn't listen (sometimes the best gift you can give someone).
Two small steps to the side changed everything that day. That brings me hope....even now.
I CAN do this. You CAN do this. Impossible things CAN happen. It's only a matter of finding the right rock.
Belay On. Climbing.
Altered Today: Hope, Planning My Next Bold Move
No profound comments from me today, just a HUGE smile across my face! You just gave me a little hope for today! :)
Posted by: Laina | 04/09/2011 at 02:53 AM