I remember being told about a “journal” my family kept for my benefit, chronicling events occurring in the initial month following my accident. And as time “crept” by I, of course forgot all about it. But upon grilling collective members of my kin for details concerning specific events, my sister politely reminded me of it’s existence. Curious as I am, I figured it was time to see it.
Neatly written within the opening paragraph, my mother wrote, “I wanted to let you know what was happening while you were sleeping.” There I sat, by myself at the kitchen table looking through an important piece of personal history. Hardly in a position, then or now (quite fitting actually) to return the warmth I was able to peruse all these many years later.
But most uncanny was the feeling that consumed me. Knowing, full well something catastrophic happened, yet having no memory, thus no feeling towards the event itself? It’s strange. There was no seeming connection felt between the kid laid up in that hospital bed and the “man” sitting here now. It was like reading about a different person.
In an odd way, it’s hard to believe it actually happened…
But being privy to their increasingly agitated scribbles gave me perspective of something I’d never thought much about. What it was like outside of my head. It strangely gave me an understanding of the person I am. The people we all are…
I didn’t and couldn’t have accomplished anything in life without help. None of us could. And admitting I need help only strengthens my resolve. And everything for which I live for…
Where some see asking for help as an absurd sign of weakness, I, however find asking and accepting help, when I need it, of course, a necessary facet of living life. We need those and that which surrounds us to live. Period. Time to recognize that fact and respect it. The sooner we acknowledge that the better off we’ll be. Trust me.
To my point, I was so touched at everything which was so carefully laid out on my behalf. Sure at the effort, obviously, but peoples concern jumped out at me almost immediately. Frankly it was astounding. I’m forever grateful for your kindness.
So thank you to all who cared enough to offer help to a family who needed all they could get in order to make sure I was given all I could ever want. You’re amazing. Next to a specific couple of parents and a sister, of course.
I sincerely hope you can appreciate the result of all their effort…