The Glory of Legs
#4: Undo/Redo Mini-Essay Series of 2024
I'm not just "getting my hiking on" while Kai is in preschool. It's more than that.
This hike is a story of contrasts.
I am hiking AFTER having been handicapped for at least eighteen months. For at least eight of those, I was severely immobile, bedridden, needing wheelchairs, and walkers.
When I have the chance—ideally without a toddler with me—I try to hike up hills in hopes that my lung capacity will come back. I've been attempting this for five years, since my first lupus ICU flare (with the exception of the season of being sick and handicapped). I haven't gotten too far yet.
But you know what? Even when I'm gasping for air, it's not my primary focus.
When I hike now, I think about my legs.
I have legs that can bear weight!
I have feet without nephropathy!
Though it damaged the vein and still aches, there is no blood clot in my left leg!
I can fit in shoes again!
My legs aren't swollen tree trucks, edema level-five!
They aren't heavier than logs!
I can move! Look how agile I am!
I might as well do a gig!
Wow!
Will this never cease to amaze me? I don't know. I think I might carry this wonder with me as long as I can walk again. I hope that will be forever, the walking. But who can say.
I just don't know what the future holds.
But today, I am STILL thrilled to get my walking on.
Not just because I can. But because I appreciate in contrast to what was impossible eighteen months ago.
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Except is wasn't impossible. You have proved that, though I suspect that you have avoided, at least in this post, speaking of the hurdles you must have faced and crossed. What you have achieved is a model, an example, an encouragement for all. of those facing traumas and shock and issues which they feel they will never overcome - are impossible to overcome. However, as you have shown and Susan B. Anthony said: "Nothing's impossible".
More strength to your arm - and legs - and I will that you have all you would wish over the festive season and onwards.