No matter how good we are or how much kindness and love we spread in the world. . . no matter how careful we are…things happen that can send a jolt to our sense of well-being and our physical and mental health.
Part of living in and accepting these human bodies is knowing that there are times when we will be ill, our hearts will ache, and we will fall or have accidents that will cause us pain or discomfort or anxiety (and I am sure you can add a few more to this list).
How can we fall into grace and hold a place of gratitude for the gift that the illness or incident offers, thankful for the new perspective and understanding, appreciative of the ‘helpers’ – both physical and spiritual – and hopefully, be grateful that it wasn’t worse?
I wrote this on Thanksgiving. That morning my partner and I went for an early morning walk to coffee except that we didn’t make it. Half way there, I turned to say, “Let’s get a move on” and turned back, catching my foot on a grate and falling face first onto the cement. Luckily, I turned my face slightly as I fell and only chipped two teeth. Grace.
Since then, I have had health challenges that have rocked my sense of equilibrium, making it even clearer how quickly things can change. It has put my life and what I focus on in perspective.
I’ve learned that I am not super woman and that it’s ok to just BE. And I’ve discovered that my community – both local and in far-away places – is awesome in their loving efforts to offer support.
When I fall into grace with trust, I am humbled by those who are there to break my fall.
I am deeply grateful.
Please share any of your personal experiences or stories about how you have ‘fallen into grace’.
Linda, I totally understand what you wrote and thank you so much for sharing your physical struggles. Since December I have been leveled by chronic fatigue syndrome (a relapse) that is humbling. I cannot do much except rest, meditate, and other quiet activities. And I was such a “busy person”, running from my own feelings. Now i have to sit through all the uncomfortable feelings I had run from. As i said, it is humbling. Illness is our teacher if and when we are able to get past the resistance to it.
Sally, I hope that you are healing physically as well as emotionally.
I am sorry that I haven’t replied sooner as I have not been writing articles in the last few months and did not see your comment. Thank you for sharing. I totally relate to what you are going through. Although I have managed to maintain a positive, grateful attitude, I am just now starting to regain my strength and energy.
I wish you the very best on your healing journey. Thank you for sharing.
Linda