A couple weeks ago, I thought I could fly. Well actually, I tripped over my dog and fell down a couple steps onto our tile floor (good thing the floor caught me!). My left knee got the brunt of the fall. The picture is where she likes to lay on the 2^nd step, and in the dark, she blends in well. I am impressed I did manage to hold onto the dish towels I was carrying too! So, after a visit to the doctor and x-rays a few days later, I found out I severely bruised under and over my kneecap.

In reflecting on my minor injury, (it could have been much worse-a lady in the waiting room had broken her kneecap in 5 places!), I have some observations/lessons I would like to share.

1. Dogs are not steps. I did know this, but it bears repeating, even if only to myself.
2. Take one step at a time/slow down. We all are guilty of rushing through things. Usually we can’t go to the next step before we have finished the current one.
3. Be more efficient on each level. My doctor said to avoid steps as much as possible, which is pretty difficult in a tri-level house. I had to make sure I got as much done on each floor before moving to the next. It’s also a good lesson in focusing on where you are instead of being distracted by other tasks.
4. Just because you can’t see an injury, doesn’t make it hurt less. Even though I joked about needing a walker, I had no apparent injury, beside a slight limp. Even though we don’t see someone hurting physically doesn’t mean they’re not hurting on the inside. Be kind.
5. It’s okay to ask for help. I do know this, but I know many of us need that reminder on a regular basis.
6. Pain can make you crabby/grumpy/etc. Pain does affect all parts of your life, including your mood.
7. Light is good. I don’t like to turn on lights, but I have been more lately. Also, in our Bible study, we have been reminded that God is light. The dog I tripped over is named Shadow. Yes, I see the irony in that also.
8. Healing takes time and don’t rush to do it all too fast. I could feel when I did too much because I had more pain. Once again, slow down.
9. It’s all in God’s timing of lessons to be learned. Not that there’s a good time to take a fall or get sick, but it did get my attention!

I do have to report I can walk the stairs mostly normal again and have less time of it aching. This has been a time for self-humbling and more understanding for those who are in much more pain than myself. But please don’t copy me on this lesson! Light is good!