Perseverance

The vista is obscured by the steady falling rain. There is a stark contrast between today’s experience of chilling cold weather under overburdened, rain rendering clouds and the adventure of the last ten days under warm sunshine illuminating brightly lit seas and shores. Blue seas and skies greeted us each day as we traveled the Eastern Caribbean to the shores of Saint Thomas and Saint Maarten. Apprehension that PD would hamper the joy of the experience was allayed as we simply struck out in faith that walking and new adventures would be achieved. Miles of walking was ultimately accomplished, some with limps, some with a cane, and some with the ankle brace. The pinnacle experience was trekking through the streets, beaches and boardwalk of Saint Maarten on a Segway. Apprehension clouded the preparation with helmet, elbow and knee pads prior to the Segway journey. Persevering, we followed the instructor’s lead and mounted the two wheeled machine, left foot first and then the right. Surprisingly balanced, we practiced forward movement, stopping (leaning backwards, ever so slightly) and turning from right to left. Soon we were off in single file through the shore and shop lined streets of that beautiful Caribbean island. Suddenly the thrill of a youthful new experience emerged as we slipped by pedestrians and maneuvered around fountains and past sidewalk cafes. What had seemed a remote possibility, just days before, was now a blossoming reality that infused aching calf muscles as we approached our first rest stop. Soon we were back on the modest two wheeler as we zoomed once again across the beach and onto pathways that took us back to our starting place. Energized and muscle strained, we sailed and walked with gratitude the long distance back to the ship that was home for the next few days. Trepidation had turned to joy as perseverance and faith undergirded the journey that morning. A grateful heart engulfed the afternoon and evening as we greeted and dined with new found friends aboard the ship. Now, even the memory brightens an otherwise cold and dreary day making way for sunshine in my mind’s eye with each thankful step!