“Ladies and gentlemen, I hold in my hands a copy of tonight’s Top 10 list.”
It’s Monday, a day traditionally reserved for the start of the work week as well as David Letterman’s weekly Top 10 list. Therefore, I thought I’d mix it up for this post and put together my own versions of a Top 10 list. So in no particular order, here goes:
Top 10 Dislikes
Not being able to move. Sure, there’s the obvious, but it’s the little things — unable to scratch my itches, feed myself or raise my arms above my head and stretch while letting out a big yawn.
Lack the ability to run my fingers through the fur of an animal and feel its softness against my hand and fingers.
Being single again. I miss being married.
I haven’t gone swimming, dove into an ocean wave or been in the water in nearly 2 years.
Feeling great and then suddenly feeling horrible as a result of the onset of autonomic dysreflexia – a cruel reminder of how much my body has changed.
Lounging on the couch and falling asleep on a Sunday afternoon with a warm breeze blowing through the screen door and some random golf tournament playing on TV.
Seeing how tired my family looks. I wish I could do more for all of them.
I can’t just get up and go somewhere. Things take time, planning and much more effort than I ever would’ve imagined.
I can’t open a bottle of wine or light a cigar or refill someone’s drink for them.
Missing “the old days” and wishing I could have them back.
Top 10 Likes
I’m proud of the adversity I’ve overcome and character I have built.
Having the ability (and responsibility) to help others in my situation, whether through talking to them, listening to them or pointing out resources to benefit them. I am proud to be an ambassador for spinal cord injured individuals.
Warm, sunny days. I can’t emphasize how much I appreciate the warm sun on my face and bright blue skies with fluffy white clouds hovering above me. It’s good for the soul!
I can eat, swallow and taste. I’m so fortunate to still have this ability.
Conversation. I have met so many new and interesting people since my injury whose paths I otherwise might never have crossed. They have helped me and taught me so much.
I’m alive. It’s actually very sad, at least it was for me, when faced with the possibility of death. I can still tell people how much I love them and enjoy the beautiful things God intends for me to discover.
Being comfortable in bed. Sometimes it takes a while, but once I’m comfortable, I’m able to sleep soundly and dream more vividly than ever before.
A lot of new opportunities have been presented to me.
I have time to sit still, to be still, to meditate and reflect. I had the time before my accident, but was always too consumed with what I thought were things of “importance” to keep me busy.
I can get into the movies for free. I need to go more, though. So come visit me and we’ll go see a show. Not to mention, I get great seating at sporting events and concerts!
I had a great weekend and enjoy the beautiful weather! I hope everyone else had the ability to the same. As always, thank you so much for your continued prayers and support! Stand strong!
Scott