Rebirth of the Phoenix
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I was sick this summer and spent most of August in Critical Care. Now that I’m well on my way to recovery I’m finding myself able to journal and write like I’ve always loved to do. I feel like a whole new person who’s able to breathe fresher air now.
After I was taken off the oxygen, I found myself really eager to drive around and spread my wings metaphorically. I’m VERY grateful for all the visits, prayers, family time, but after so many weeks of being stuck at home and not be able to drive myself to certain places like before, I kind of felt like a puppy on a leash waiting to go on a walk and get out of the house (and with the oxygen tube in my nose keeping me at home, it felt like an actual leash!).
Something happened while healing. I was learning to be more patient. More patient with myself and more patient with others. I was realizing how fortunate I am and how grateful that my illness didn’t end up worse than it could have. I spent a lot of time just sitting on the back porch until the sun started to go down and breathing in the fresh September air. I felt like I had been given new life, and I sure don’t want to waste it.
I’ve even made a list of things I wanted to do while on fall vacation with my family (since I was sick during our summer vacation). I feel the need to make up for it and pack a lot of fun into this vacation! I want to try a new restaurant. I want to go to the movies to see Wicked in the theater. I want to have a steak dinner at my favorite restaurant, go mini golfing, and ice skating, or maybe try something entirely new. I want to be brave and move out of my comfort zone. Maybe even consider taking a class in something like writing, or cooking, or self-defense.
My point is that I’m very grateful for being able to make such a recovery and for all the love, support, visits, and patience I was given while healing (PS, therapy dogs are so ADORABLE!). I remember always seeing my mom in my hospital room from early in the morning to late at night. She helped me advocate for myself and communicate with the doctors to make sure I was comfortable with everything they were explaining to me. I remember my dad saying he can’t wait for our late-night crime show time (we watch Criminal Minds and Law & Order SVU together). I remember my sister helping with chores for me and for my parents and helping me get around the house when I was finally back home.
So basically I’m learning that it’s never too late to try new things – and to always be patient with yourself and others.
That’s all for now,
Sarah