stiffness
Overcast and windy, the day presents itself warmer than it appearance. The winds of March are arriving well before their calendar schedule as evidenced by the whirling sound around the old farmhouse crevices. Let loose from the indoor confines of the evening, Gracie races in circles until nature calls her to its business. Today’s agenda is full even as desire is only half there. Stiffness and rigidity will need to be circumvented by perseverance and tenacity. Visions of what it will be like once the tasks are done are beginning their insinuation as fuel for motivation. This old dog is using old tricks to tackle new problems. Today’s victories will be tomorrow’s memories that act as fuel for thankfulness.
An unwelcomed alarm rang as this winter inhabitant lay deep in sleep beneath the warm confines of the sheets and cover. A slow moan of protest served only as a prompter to arise from the fetal position as feet were inserted into the waiting slippers. A tug at the ready sweatshirt pulling it over head and torso preceded a stumble to the door commanding the dog to get her business done. With every movement a near calamity met with resistance and aches, this day had the beginnings of a challenge. The stirring of wood embers remaining from last evening’s fire served as the ignition for the new log gently inserted in the mouth of the old stove. Morning medication consumed, the waiting was now on for the chill to be taken from the air in the old farmhouse. Movements once taken for granted with speed and dexterity today seemed painfully intentional and resistant. Determination set in and a trip to the gym soon ensued. As fuel to frustration the roads were crowded and the gymnasium was packed with slow moving, texting and gawking time killers. Reason said I had no deadlines to meet but temperament said “get out of my way.” Recalling my own advice, I went to a place of prayer in which thanks and gratitude were expressed. I found some relief, but my mood and stiffness of movement remained as instigators of further unrest. Each chore of the day has seemingly taken on a unique challenge of its own. I continue to utter words and thoughts of thankfulness in faith that “this too shall pass.” Without the rough spots we wouldn’t know what the smooth spots were like!
The room was filled with anticipation from those who attended the workshop that day. Insights into human motivation were being gleaned as the facilitators shared their mutual and respective experiences. Nothing was simplistic, but everything was being explained in a simple manner. “We have a choice in related to one another,” the first leader touted. “Build walls or bridges,” the second one followed. They postulated that each took time, energy, and materials to construct. One kept people out while the other gave egress to those desiring to cross. If one’s view of the world is that it is a daunting and hostile place, that person will most likely be about building walls, even if that person desires relationship. If one believes that the world has its challenges, but all may be overcome with the help and support of others, bridges will be built. Volumes have been written about relationships and the complexities therein. Some are quite helpful where others simply build reading skills. The discovery that how one views one’s diagnosis and symptoms can play an integral part in maintaining health and mobility has been a blessing. I am learning that “listening” to my symptoms of pain and stiffness rather than being hostile to them gives me yet another tool with which to build a bridge of understanding as to the complex needs of my body. Understanding the need for strategic and specific exercises, though possibly difficult to maneuver, may be the bridge over which greater comfort may eventually travel my way. Above all, I am thankful for insight that helps navigate the bridge building to greater peace with health. Someday, all will be made whole as I cross the bridge built by the Master Craftsman. Until then, I am thankful for any bridge building tools He brings my way.