Free

Because my left leg was in a cast for four weeks, it is now skinnier than my right. The blood circulation is still pretty bad around the foot but I have been elevating it as much as I can to help with the circulation. Even as I type right now, the foot is resting at an elevation.

Amidst all the pain and grief that the fracture has given me, I have learnt so much. I thought about it the other day. Given a time machine, I would not have changed a thing.

I have a new found respect for people with a disability. You have no idea how difficult it is to not let other people be blinded by the cast and crutches. Especially in the workplace. It almost defines who you are. And you have to work even harder to dismantle that inept stereotype that disability is attached with. Goes without saying.

But... there are people/strangers who will go out of their way to help you. Or simply someone who seems to be having a difficult time. Opening doors is a menace for someone with crutches. I have never had so many people open doors for me before. Taxi drivers... they will go the extra mile and look after you like a delicate flower. And make you laugh.

In truth, the hardest times are when you are on your own. When you are the only one feeling the pain. When silence takes over and doubts begin to attack you. Time and time again, your resilience is tested. Your body changes. It is scary.

But we need to remember that this is a milestone in our lives. That we have hit a bump in the road and we need to lift ourselves up even when we are breaking down inside. These eight (or ten or twenty) weeks in our lives will train us with the knowledge that one day might help someone else. Someone in need. Someone we care about.

So here's to giving ourselves a break (no pun intended) and taking our time.