I have realized through my travels, that “injury isn't just a process of recovery. It's a process of discovery.” Injury can take on a whole lot of meaning. I recently had an injury to my heart. I know I sound very dramatic and it is. Injury in the form of body failure. Injury in the form of discouragement. Injury in the form of frustration.
But, with me, in case you all don’t know this, there is always a way to heal. I am a caterpillar and a butterfly. A caterpillar because I do find ways to keep my spirit safe and warm. A butterfly because I always seek a way to fly towards new understanding, discovery and goals.
There are many ways to stay healthy and protected during injury – any injury.
Positivity – Before my spine surgery almost two years ago, a good friend asked me as I uttered disdain for my body and a crazy anger for my situation, “What are you meant to learn from this?” With that comment, I was able to begin the process of discovery. I always make this a point to think about with any challenge that I face.
Perspective – “Not all storms come to disrupt your life, some come to clear your path”. See the injury - whether physical, emotional or spiritual - as a means to clearing your path instead of a means to disrupting your journey.
Perseverance – dig in, keep trudging, marginal gains daily will lead to exponential growth. Believe in yourself and the innate healing of your body. Lean into the challenge as opposed to fighting it.
Patience – You have all heard that “patience is a virtue”. This is a very difficult character trait for me. I am not going to lie. I have found that this is not my strongest quality, but I know that when I stay in the present, my patience increases. Message: don’t go down the rabbit hole of worry.
Powerful language – Use language that empowers you. Consider using “Part of me” as opposed to “I am”. Consider, “My hip challenges are a part of me” as compared to “I am a hip patient.”
Puppy - So my heart trauma was the loss of my dog, Sandy. I have not replaced her, but I have made room in my heart for my new puppy, Gigi. Her energy has overwhelmed me most days, but cuddling with her and taking naps with her has allowed me to move forward. Find something or someone to help you with your journey.
Find the meaning of your journey. Stay positive. Stay hopeful. Persevere!
"The only journey is the one within" - Rainer Maria Rilke
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