When I’m traveling, it’s very easy to see the big views out my windows, like this one. I always see such potential in looking at the long road unfolding in front of me and the big skies overhead. It’s exciting, for sure.
Then there are the times — like this week — where I focus instead on the little things, the details of what makes something so interesting. This orchid was odd at first glance and I didn’t really like it all that much. Moving closer, seeing the delicate patterns on the lip, made me love it in a way that viewing the whole flower could not.
Ferns are usually memorable for their size and volume. Seeing tiny yellow fronds unfolding their thin tendrils — and seeing my friends’ granddaughter in her first week of life — reminds me how fragile things when they start out. Life is a series constantly changing miracles: plants growing leaf by branch, babies growing ounces to pounds, each of us growing and learning until our last breaths.
Of all the flowers in the conservatory, this little one captured my heart. It was completely overshadowed by bigger and brighter bushes nearby, but it didn’t care. Its mission was to bloom, and so it was happy in its own little universe of light, water, and earth. There’s a lesson in there for me, and maybe for you too.
I’m focused on the little things because I’m in the middle of hand therapy. Somewhere in my brain, I thought the cast would come off, I’d do a little heat and stretching and, voila, my hand would be back. Reality was much different: a hand that was so swollen and stiff that I barely wanted to claim it as mine when it emerged. I was discouraged to see how little I could do with it, and yet determined to get it all back over time.
Bending a finger another 1/4 inch, getting my thumb and damaged finger to touch, these are the little things that will get my hand back into working condition in, oh, 3 to 5 months. It’s a rehab marathon, so I take each little movement as a sign I’m heading in the right direction, however long it takes me to get there.
The true secret of happiness lies in taking a genuine interest in all the details of daily life.
William Morris
Dear Annie. This post reminded me of what a LONG road healing can be. Your observation that you thought the cast would come off and “violá” you would be able to use your hand again touched my heart because I recognize that expectation, it is so very familiar to me.
Coming back from knee replacement and a broken heart has taken what feels like eons, and it is ongoing. Yet, slowing down has sharpened my focus, just as this post demonstrates it is sharpening yours. And, the results are beautiful, just like you my friend and sister. ♡
There are all sorts of things that can be used for hand therapy, hopefully your OT/PT will suggest some. Rubber or foam ball to squeeze, small objects such as buttons to pick up, marbles, etc – do a google search for “hand therapy”. Most are for folks who have had strokes but you might get some ideas from that. You can bend and stretch but actually using your hand is good therapy – and don’t forget the wrist and elbow too. Watch for shoulder strain from trying to use your hand in an awkward manner. Stretch that shoulder and when you can – do some weight work.
Annie. I’ve just hit the road myself. I so enjoy your blog. I also have had some challenging rehab this past year. It became my full time job and I got through it. You will, too. Give it the focus it requires and you’ll get through it.
You’re right, Sherry, and patience isn’t my strong suit when I’m a patient 🙂
Looking forward to seeing some of your photos of your current trip, since it’s what I’m thinking of for next spring/summer.
Thanks, Tom, I appreciate your reading and taking the time to make a comment. Stone Mtn was a lot of fun, and I’m glad I got to spend a little time with you and Karen. Take care of yourselves, and hope Karen’s walking 100% soon.
Therapy is not quick or easy but well worth it. Stay focused.
Annie, it’s really hard when our bodies don’t heal as fast as we expect them to but I know you will hang in there and finish the job. Beautiful flower photos and a good reminder for all of us.
Cheers.
Annie – I always look forward to, and enjoy blogs and photos. The flower photos from Friday and today are absolutely stunning. I particularly like the multi-colored jack-in-the-pulpit looking guy! I’m so pleased I got meet you face-to-face at Stone Mountain. Safe travels and good luck getting your hand back to 100% operation.