My friend
Pam sent a message saying that I seem happier at home than here in
Galveston. It’s true that I have
been disappointed this winter. I had looked forward to walking the beach every
clement day. Vigorous exercise in salty air is my main purpose in coming here.
Sad to say, my body wasn’t up to it. My left ankle swelled and reddened with
inflammation every time I took a beach walk. Finally, about two weeks ago, I
quit trying.
Being in
this lovely place but unable to fully enjoy it is difficult. I’ve been
restless, feeling cooped up and mistrustful of my failing bones. Times like these
are a test of character, I believe. What does one do when one’s expectations do
not become reality? The Navajo principle of being in harmony with reality comes
to mind.
Finding
joy in the possible instead of longing for the impossible seems to be the
solution. I watch the water birds in the bay and canals. I bake bread and have altered the recipe to fit into a loaf pan. I read
books that take me away in time and place. Yesterday I went to Fair Isle,
Scotland, an island very different from Galveston. I’m going back there today.
I’m biding
my time, resting my foot, waiting to get home and see my foot specialist. In
the meantime, it’s birds, books and bread for me.
Copyright
2013 by Shirley Domer
No comments:
Post a Comment