REALITY CHECK

Last week I received the ultimate reality check when I fell on the sidewalk and broke my wrist. This is a picture of my new BFF Castzilla.  Full arm cast to try to avoid surgery. Until I broke bones, I had not paid much attention to the little things in life, the proverbial "stop to smell the roses" events that happen every day.

Have you ever stopped to think about everything you need 2 hands to do?

• Buckle a seat belt
• put on a bra
• open a jar
• put toothpaste on a toothbrush
• do your hair with a curling iron or hot rollers
• pull up socks, pants, underwear
• wash certain body parts

I bet we could name a whole lot more.

I'm learning to get by on one wing for a while, but what I really got from this temporary inconvenience was a deeper understanding and respect for those who must deal with the loss of a limb for the rest of their lives; our heroes in uniform, those who lose an arm or leg to an accident, those who must decide on amputation or life. I think I can safely say we all feel empathy, but until now, I didn't really understand the life implications.

What helped to drive this sudden light bulb over the head moment home for me was seeing Noah Galloway on Dancing With the Stars.  I 'm complaing because I need help washing my hair for 6 weeks, and this American hero is coping with the loss of an arm and leg for the rest of his life.  I mean, shut up Kathye. You get your arm back by May. Noah gets his arm and leg back when he gets to Heaven.

So while I don't want any of you to break a limb or lose one to get a light bulb of your own if you don't already have a bright one already lit, I am asking that you stop for a moment when the news reports terrorists attacked our military and there are casulaties, or when there is a terrible accident somewhere and people are harmed like at the Boston Marathon Bombing, or if you hear of someone whose illness is requiring them to make a choice.  Say a little prayer, send some good chi, or  wish them well. I know I will not be able to just think "so sad" any longer. 

And to put the proverbial money where my mouth is, I am fully supporting the Wounded Warriors Project with a monthly donation.  I waste enough money t Sephora every month catering to my vanity.  Now I'll put

that money to better use.

Off my soapbox now.  Thanks for listening and God Bless America's heroes.

Saddle Up!

By

Sandra Wilkins

          “Courage is being scared to death but saddling up anyway.”  That’s one of my favorite quotes from an old John Wayne movie.  The statement can apply to all kinds of situations—serious and not so serious.

          Not long ago, I did something I never thought I’d be able to do.  I’ll spare the details, but let’s just say my heart was thundering like a herd of horses, my mouth was as dry as the Sonoran Desert and I was shakin’ in my boots (well, black flats anyway).  I was wondering why I was putting myself through the misery.  After all, it wasn’t something I “had” to do.  I really wasn’t sure if I could go through with it.  But, I could feel the support of the others around me.  I knew I’d be safe in their hands.  While I didn’t perform as well as I would have liked, I didn’t disgrace myself either.  I actually had fun after it was over.  All in all, I’m so glad I did it.  It was extremely empowering to conquer a fear.   

          I think it’s good to push ourselves out of our comfort zones once in a while.  We might find a new pastime we can enjoy or make new friends in the process.  I think especially if you’re trying to bring joy to others it’s definitely a worthwhile pursuit. 

          Is there anything you’ve been hankerin’ to try but have been afraid to give it a go?  Why don’t you join me—and let’s “saddle up”!

    Sandra Wilkins is busy writing another series while home educating her two daughters.  Ada’s Heart, Rose’s Hope and Gwen’s Honor are her first three published wholesome historical romances.  Go to www.sandrawilkins.com to find out more about her and her books.