Monday – 1/3/2011

“Every passing day is another chance to turn it all around.”

Happy New Year! It’s amazing to think how quickly another year has come and gone. I’m sure all of us at some point find ourselves asking the same question, “Where does all the time go?” Time is a precious commodity, that once gone, it’s gone forever. I hope everyone made the most out of 2010. If not, well you’re in luck, 2011 is here and a chance for all of us to make it happen.

If you recall, 2010 was The Year of the Miracle for me. I’ve learned that not all miracles are grand and big and obvious. Some miracles come to us quietly and reveal themselves in a subtle manner that we appreciate over time. Those were the type of miracles I experienced in 2010. I can honestly say that I am in a better position today that I was one year ago. I feel healthy and blessed to be where I am today. I am so very thankful for the miracle of friends, family and the power of their prayers and support.

A new year is certainly a time of excitement which brings with it the opportunity to start all over. The truth is, though, we can start over at any time we want. But for those of us who need a little extra motivation, hopefully the start of a new year will give us the boost we need. People often talk of resolutions around this time of year. For me, I make resolutions every day. In fact, I would suspect most people do who find themselves in challenging situations that often present an unpredictable future. In this case, the biggest resolution is to be resolute. When faced with the challenge like mine, I have learned that determination, perseverance and an unwavering will are more important than doctors, pills and hospitals. The latter are great defense mechanisms, but the former are the foundation for miracles. And while it’s tough to always remain resolute, it is easy to see the effects it can have on one. For all of us out there who find ourselves tired and dejected, keep the faith and perseverance that you have inside of you close at hand, and remain resolute.

I do have some goals for 2011, many of which I am already working towards, such as attending a major physical therapy program, moving into a new home, etc. I also have some private goals I hope to attain that I’ll be sure to celebrate publicly when I’m fortunate enough to achieve them. I hope everyone achieves their goals this year, but I especially hope that my fellow SCI survivors find the resolution needed to stand strong and achieve their goals!

I had several great visits with friends over the past week. Some visits were planned while others were unexpected, but all were enjoyed!  One of these visits was from my niece and nephews, father-in-law and sister-in-law. This was especially nice because I was able to visit with them at Kristy’s apartment. Visits outside of the nursing home are always much more relaxed for me. We spent the day eating walking tacos (for those of you wondering, my nephew taught me that walking taco is when you put all the ingredients in a bowl and mash it up, so that you can walk around the room and eat it without spilling all over your shirt) and watching the show “Hoarders” on The History Channel and the movie “Elf.” It was an outstanding day!  By the way, anyone who feels that their house could appear on the show Hoarders needs to add a little cleaning to their resolutions!  

I hope all of us can have a year that would be worthy to repeat next year!  Thank you for your prayers and support! Oh, and Go Buckeyes!

Scott