Learning Journal #4: VARIABLE SPEED REQUIRED
I am not ADHD- not by a long shot. But I guess I can be mistaken for that occasionally, When I get involved in something, I get involved-sometimes too quickly, too obsessively, and too energetically. This can lead to rash actions (unfortunately) and also hurt feelings.
Case in point: After having the knee replacement on November 11th, I have what could be called “cabin fever.” (It is 11/23 as I write this particular entry). I call it “a desire to get out of the house.” Jo calls it “pushing it.” You can see the source of conflict already without me saying so. Can’t you? I went to my first post-op yesterday (22nd) with the surgeon and his PA gave me some freedom. I can start going to the office. I can go to the Y as long as I’m careful (I can walk and do upper body strength conditioning. Sadly, no bike yet). I immediately began talking about going to the office next week and the Y. That met with resistance even though the PA said I could. Me? I want to dive all the way in.
Jesus told a parable in Matthew 13 about a farmer sowing seed. Some seed fell on hard ground; some on rocky soil; some among thorns; and some on good soil. That second soil is what I have in mind. There are some who hear the Word and it sprouts up. They grow like wildfire. But they grew too fast without getting roots. The plant soon wilts-they soon wilt-because of the heat. I’m eager to get my life back to the way it was. I’m ready to get back all gung-ho. Meanwhile, I have someone putting on the brakes, someone (whom I think) wants to clip my wings. In all honesty, I really do believe she has my best interest in mind. 🙂 I guess there needs to be a happy medium?
BTW: I won’t even tell you when the PA told me I could start driving again, nor will I tell you Jo’s reaction! 🙂 🙂
{Note: I did honor Jo and waited until the 25th to make my first trip to the Y. We attended worship with the church family together on the 24th and left after I had a chance to visit for a few minutes and the music started for the start of the second service (and I used the walker for safety’s sake). I did go to a staff meeting on Wednesday, the 27th. My first time driving was the 27th}.
Glad you are pacing yourself! More importantly, I am glad to hear that it sounds like you are recovering well!
Pacing myself? Hmmm not sure Jo would call it that. 🙂
Cabin fever? I’d say you have a classic case, Bill, and I can understand why. You are naturally someone who craves activity and doing for others. Maybe, though, slowing down a bit is what God wants for you during this Advent season. Just a thought . . .
Blessings!
I’ve given slowing down some thought Martha. A very slim thought. 🙂 But you are right in that I should allow this season to motivate me to do just that.
Bill I am happy, you seem to be recovering much quicker than anyone I have seen go through a knee replacement. I believe you had so many people lifting you up in prays and that those prayers were heard and answered. Keep being a good patient, and appreciate some down time, and keep on Jo’s good side. God is a great healer, and may all the praise and glory be His.
Thank you Gail for the kind words. If I had had my way, I would have been an immediate recover-er. ‘Course there are some things sheer willpower won’t let happen. 🙂 I do give credit to all the people praying for me and for God’s healing. I do give the glory and honor to Him.
It is difficult to pace ourselves. We get grumpy and impatient with others as well as ourselves. There is a time for everything and it seems this is your time to take it easy. Praying for continued healing for you and patience for both you and Jo! lol!😂
Yes it is hard to pace ourselves Pam. I am certainly finding that out as I tire more quickly as the day moves on. My PT reminded me just yesterday that I had a traumatic invasion of my body and I need to give it time to heal. All I can say is, “Grumpy? Me grumpy?” Thanks for the continued prayers Pam.
Whoa Old man!!! You are giving us young bucks the idea that we can fly like Iron Man… Slow down there!
Hahahaha. I know what you mean though. We got a whole lotta living to do. It’s nice that you have someone to keep you in check!
I give you permission to fly Ed. 🙂