We’ve had a fabulous graduation weekend! Our Brilliant Son graduated with honors from the top academic high school in the state and he’s on to great things come fall. You’ve probably noticed I’ve been on a Dr. Seuss kind of high with Oh, The Places You’ll Go.
Most people know how the book starts with a congratulatory burst of happy motivation, but there’s an important middle section that addresses the harsh reality of life’s pitfalls and downward spirals. To quote the marvelously wise Dr. Seuss: “I’m sorry to say so, but sadly it’s true. Bang-ups and Hang ups can happen to you.”
For four and a half years I’ve been dealing with an increasingly difficult and debilitating back injury. It’s been a big “Bang-up”.
At first, every medical professional told me it could take a year to get back to normal. Now, I’m hearing life will never be the same, that the most hopeful treatments have yet to be approved or practiced with my particular condition. Weird but true.
Three years ago I managed to walk and mingle on my own two feet at our brilliant daughter’s high school graduation. This past weekend, I watched with pride and happiness from my wheelchair, daring to stand only for a few quick pictures. Bigger “Hang-up”.
Don’t get me wrong, I love the mobility the wheelchair provides. I love my chiropractor and my acupuncturist and even my GP for the guidance and support. The truth is, with a few new twists in my back condition, without the wheelchair (and all that support) I’m homebound for sure.
But there’s a practical as well as an emotional component to this situation and some days are bleak and dark. Really dark. I’ve learned not to fight it, or at least not to beat myself up for having those lows. Accepting those dark days and rolling with them gets me out of the funk sooner.
On dark days I give myself a little grace, and throw myself into whatever is working in that moment. Writing, editing, searching out cover art. Even small steps forward are positive progress in the areas of my life that I can control.
Whatever your “bang-up” or “hang-up” give yourself a little grace and remember Dr. Seuss and I know you’re smart enough to keep moving forward until you find your way out of that twisty, risky, dark place.
Live the adventure!
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