Saturday – 2/4/2012

“Pain is a relatively objective, physical phenomenon; suffering is our psychological resistance to what happens. Events may create physical pain, but they do not in themselves create suffering. Resistance creates suffering. Stress happens when your mind resists what is… The only problem in your life is your mind’s resistance to life as it unfolds.”

I really like the above quote, which is attributed to Dan Millman. I have written about him in the past (Wednesday – 9/1/2010) and continue to be in awe of his story and the incredible journey he endured. If you have the time, you should check out his story for yourself at www.peacefulwarrior.com.

“Resistance creates suffering.” Let that sink in for a moment. I certainly am not advocating that one should just accept whatever situation he or she finds themselves in and not try to work towards a better outcome. What I really think this quote tells us is that it is only after you accept the situation at hand that you will be in the best position to confront the challenge in front of you. After my injury I was extremely depressed and anxious for several months. Most of my time was spent wishing I could erase what happened and go back to the way things were. While I believe this is somewhat of a natural reaction after experiencing a catastrophic event, it is also an unproductive and futile exercise. Unfortunately, it is easier said than done (at least it was for me) to feel sorry for yourself and question why things happened than it is to pick yourself up, released the reins of resistance and embrace the new path that lays in front of you. I certainly don’t want to come off as a Pollyanna. I am well aware of how difficult it is to shake off the blanket of fear and anxiety that often engulfs someone following a tragedy. In hindsight, I wish I could have been stronger in initially dealing with my circumstances. However, I am grateful and in a better place today as a result of accepting my reality and beginning the work towards charting a new course.

I was not able to make it to any of my physical therapy sessions this past week due to some constant neck pain. Not sure if it is due to pushing myself too hard, the new (firmer) mattress I am sleeping on, or a combination of both, but I’ve been in a lot of discomfort the past week. The good news is that I think a few days off helped quite a bit as I have not had to pop as many muscle relaxants in the past few days. I am meeting with my neurosurgeon on Monday to have him look things over. However, at this point I am planning on resuming my exercise regimen next week. I may need to make a few modifications to ease back into things, but do not want to take more time off – consistency makes a big difference in how my body feels and advances.

In other news, I have another speaking engagement lined up for the end of March which I’m excited about. I really enjoy the opportunity to get in front of people, especially younger adults, and share my story while at the same time helping others learn that adversity can be overcome through hard work, a positive attitude and faith. It’s a recipe that I truly believe can help anyone in any circumstance. I’m not saying that all your problems will disappear if you pray hard enough or will it hard enough, rather I believe you will find the strength you need to face the hardships you encounter. Try it for yourself.

Please continue to keep all those living with paralysis in your thoughts and prayers. I’m extremely grateful and appreciative of all the support I continue to receive! Stand Strong!

Scott

P. S. – We’re supposed to be in for 6 more weeks of winter, but like weatherman, I’ve stopped listening to groundhogs.