Showing posts with label arthritis. Show all posts
Showing posts with label arthritis. Show all posts

Wednesday, January 11, 2023

LEARNING GRATITUDE


At times over the past few years I’ve indulged in a lot of self-pity. All my old friends are sick or dying, I can’t travel, etc., etc. Last year was especially bad, as my arthritis became extremely painful, and a fall led to a fractured pelvis and related problems. I spent six weeks in a dreadful rehab facility for bed rest and physical therapy, often too miserable even to read. I complained a lot, and actually looked forward to dying. I’m eighty-five now; it can’t be too much longer.

Then, slowly, I got better. The bed rest and physical therapy were successful, and at last I returned to my comfortable book-lined apartment. Meals here are always adequate and sometimes very good. I can walk with a walker, visit with friends, read, and watch good television programs and movies.

Yes, I still have bad days, as any aging person does. I know all too well that at any time, an accident or other event can instantly plunge me into darkness again.  But most of the time I can feel grateful for the life I have now, for that moment of happiness. Sometimes I unexpectedly catch a glimpse of myself in a mirror, and I’m smiling. How lucky I am!