Nearly sixty years of age, grandma to five rambunctious grandsons and one girly two-year-old, I am officially beginning a new exercise program, albeit not of my choosing. Pausing for a moment; sometimes for many moments… I focus intently on which foot needs to go first, take hold of my thoughts as I anticipate the ache that will radiate throughout my armpits and hands, and in one faith-filled moment throw myself at the mercy of the crutches beneath me. Trusting they will bear my weight and they will catch me…
Through a series of unfortunate events I stumbled over our sweet, tank-sized farm dog which led to an unexpected outcome: a broken left foot.
I’m fairly confident this would have been an easier journey forty years ago. I would have been physically stronger as well as mentally more amenable to the adventure before me. But, it is what it is, and by God’s grace I am determined to rise to the challenge of the next 6-8 weeks.
♥♥♥♥♥
-Day 1: I am stunned as to the reality before me. Going to the bathroom is an event that requires planning. No last minute trips for me…
– Day 2.1: Reminiscent of rolling foothills on the horizon, I observe small hills appearing in random locations around the house… I am a hostage in my reclining chair, and can only remain seated as the piles continue to rise in mountainous fashion…
– Day 2.2: An emotional meltdown swept over me in waves as I contemplated the seasons throughout my life; reminiscing about my mom and the ever-faithful nurturing she provided whenever I encountered a physical challenge. Nearly twelve years after her passing, I grieve anew for her. It matters not the age, moms hold a secure place in every child’s heart…
-Day 3.1: “Liberation Day”! My husband brought home a knee scooter which allows me to get around the house without the discomfort and exhaustion I experience when using crutches. I know crutches are an effective workout but standing on one leg all the time isn’t exactly what I had in mind…
– Day 3.2: With the close of another day the sun slips out of view, but the hope of new victories begins to lay hold in my heart. Journeying through uncharted territory where I am unable to accomplish simple tasks, I put my trust in God’s faithfulness to make the way smooth and clear…
-Day5.1: Praise God for showers! With the clever creativeness my husband is well versed in, I was able to successfully traverse the threshold into the shower via strategically placed upside-down buckets on which to kneel. Hop by hop I am on my way toward reclaiming my routines.
“Let every valley be lifted up, And every mountain and hill be made low; And let the rough ground become a plain, And the rugged terrain a broad valley.” Isaiah 40:4 NAS
