A few years ago, I had just returned to work after having been off for three months receiving IV Levequin through a PICC line. After a month’s stay in Bronson Kalamazoo, countless bone and disc biopsies, MRIs, and in-home physical therapy, I learned to walk all over again. These thoughts hit me hard when I returned to work as I had to participate in a pep rally to kick-off 'Spirit Week' for Corporate Cup. As I was complaining about having to run down the middle of the day center in shorts, the tee-shirt, and a cape (of all things!), that I have really been blessed to even be able to do that. And the elderly loved it. They clapped and cheered like we were a bunch of superstars.
I had signed up to participate in a couple of events for the first time. I think I did a walking event, a running event, and the Tug-of-War. When I was sick for so long, I had a lot of time to think. And I decided to make myself participate in things I had not participated in before. This was totally outside of my comfort zone, but I pushed forward anyway. I have found in my life that I have to force myself to do a lot of things that I don’t want to do. But I am grateful to be able to do them.
The thought hit me again later on when I was working out with my personal trainer at the gym. He always put me through quite the workout and I tended to whine and complain. However, each time he said, "just one more time", and I was feeling like I just couldn't do it, I remembered feeling the same way after my illness. I didn't think I could do it. But I did it. I had to. And I am grateful.