ode to a stranger

There was a day I was walking in the park with Isabelle. It's a daily activity that's pretty easy for me, now. But, several years back that wasn't the case. Discs in my lower back were pinching nerves, causing the most piercing pain I had ever experienced. 

Walking was the worst; and I loved walking.

i saw you

walking in the park

alone

birds chattered

with squirrels

together

i saw you

bent, moving slowly

coping

willows shifting in the wind

sky lit and sparkling

balanced

i saw you

and i was sad

until i saw your smile

inspiring

After infinite physical therapy treatments and injections and chiropractor visits my doc said a fusion was needed. I freaked, but at this point had nothing to lose and my very movement to gain.

Seven years later, I can hike and bike, kayak and snowshoe. I'm grateful for the mobility I gained.

So, seeing this woman in the park brought a flood of emotion and empathy. She was as bent as branches on some of the old twisted pine trees. I was sad for her struggle, feeling the effort each step took. But, when our eyes met, it was a different story. Her outer person had difficulties, but her inner person was full of life. The smile, her congenial way gave me pause.

I really, really want to be that type of person. The one who doesn't let physical, outward stuff be the definition of who I ultimately am inside.

We all have choices. We choose to smile, to be kind, to be generous and thoughtful. These qualities aren't dependent on how we look or feel. They come from a deeper place. They come from living a life of gratitude.

Thank you, bent woman in the park for exposing grateful elements. I'm glad I saw you.

Missy

If you have been mildly amused, challenged or inspired by what you have read, please pass on my blog to a friend, colleague, family member or even random acquaintance