A surprising thing happened, too. As we were discussing our love of the meditative process of beading and needlework, a member of the class offered up that she is dealing with significant chronic pain and the problems it causes. And then a second person shared a similar experience. Add me as a third wheel, and there was quite a discussion. It was unbelievable meeting someone else whose reflections of living like this -- with a pain jacket you can’t take off, ever -- was so much like my own. The first person who opened the door on the conversation is destined to become a friend, It was like meeting a fellow soul traveller who “gets it.” Add to it that this nice lady has birds now and had big parrots in the past, and cats. Sometimes the world introduces support as well as problems, it seems. It was helpful for me personally to hear someone else articulate the exact issues of stress, frustration, depression, and downright hopelessness sometimes of being “always sick and in pain” that I feel and have been dealing with for so long now. I could totally understand where the other ladies were coming from and felt less alone. Isn’t that what life is all about? I am grateful.
After the workshop, I came outside to find my car battery had died. I don’t know why, really! I called roadside assistance, and the kind lady I mentioned above insisted on waiting with me until help came. We sat in the parking lot, laughing and talking like we were in a restaurant. The tow truck didn’t come, was delayed, blah blah blah. I called my ex-husband, who so nicely said he could come if I was stuck. And Tim, who lived close by, who also offered to help. Finally after two delays Tim got the job and kindly popped over to jump my car. It started right up. I am so lucky to have people in my life I can count on for help. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
I got home and promised myself a good night’s sleep with no wake up alarm. Up at 4:30, wanting to sleep more and unsuccessfully trying. Sore all over. Then a loud rumbling outside at 6am and two barking dogs letting me know something was up on my street. The fire truck and paramedics were at my neighbor’s house. She hasn’t been well, and seeing the trucks there causes much alarm. So scary and hard. At least she is getting good care.
So, here I sit awake too early on a dark, rainy fall morning. I need more rest but can’t have it now. The lukewarm tea is losing its appeal and I am still craving coffee, The house is in shambles, so much to be done. And I am bone-tired yet can’t sleep if I lay down to rest. My arms, legs, and feet are literally throbbing with pain. Am hoping for a gust of energy to carry me through the must-do’s so I can get to the “want-to-do’s” - but I feel like I am moving through quicksand. Happy Sunday, everyone! Just another day in the life. Glad it is a three day weekend! Cheers.