Thursday, November 19, 2009

Starting the Day with a Happy Cry

Yesterday before leaving for work, not wanting to wake Rick, I quietly turned on the Today Show hoping to find out more on today's weather. Matt Lauer was introducing Scott Hamilton at the Rockefeller skating rink. He stood there, walker in hand, and was going to make his first public skating appearance in five years, since his multiple cancer surgeries and healing.

I've always liked Scott Hamilton -- he's a great entertainer, wonderful skater, seems like a nice guy. And heaven knows he has guts.He's the ultimate "ice child" who knows how to play -- and knows how to work. Open. A little bit in awe -- but in control.

Carefully he moved the walker to the middle of the rink, holding close. A few knee movements, all "attached" to his metal friend.

And then he let go. Scotty Hamilton was back (no doubt, playing the moment for all it was worth as any good showman should! A ruse, perhaps -- but that it took those five years in-between to get him back there.) Take a look.

I couldn't stop crying.

I want to thank you all for such kind support during the past few days. I'm still running behind but the good news is that Rick is improving and getting stronger daily. He's still very tired, sleeping a lot, says he's not in pain, but wears down. I think that'll be the norm for a bit. But -- like Scott Hamilton -- he's a fighter. And that's a source of great comfort.

We even went out for a bit last night to Jef Mallett's book signing. He saw lots of people he know and felt their energy. Felt like he was "coming back."

So, today I offer up a big heap of gratitude for the human spirit, the survival mechanism we somehow find in ourselves. The ability to fight through the pain, to persevere, to make choices not just to stay alive, but to be alive.

Every now and then we get the reality check that life is one day at a time. That our world can change in a heartbeat. I suppose if one dwells on this negatively, it could be a bad thing -- we would be continually afraid.

But it's worth keeping in mind, to celebrate our lives, our achievements, our friends, and those we love every single day.

To the Ricks and the Scott Hamiltons and Lance Armstrongs of the world who get back on the bike (at the right time) -- or the ice; to every single one of us who have challenges that are truly difficult to slog through, be they physical, emotional, concern, financial or just the plain old crummy side of life, I'm grateful you keep at it. Your being in it makes this world a better place.

Speaking of which, I love you guys. You're the best. Thank you.

As I mentioned, last night Rick and I went to the book store to hear his pal and rescuer, Jef Mallett, read from his new book, "Trizophrenia."

I've got to say it was the best thing we could have done. Lots of people glad to see Rick, good to get back out in the real world, even if it was pretty darned tiring in the endgame!

Jef's a good presenter and the book is funny -- even if you're not as into any of the triathalon sports. And he had his Frazz books there, too. Who could argue with those?

Getting back to the real world. Can't be soon enough.

12 comments:

Pugelicious said...

I am so glad Rick is on the mend and you are finding inspiration again. There are so many amazing people - so many challenges that are overcome. God Bless you Jeannie - stay strong x

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anno said...

Small moves lead to bigger changes. So glad you both were able to get out last night... hope you both are feeling better soon.

Ruth said...

Scott Hamilton was poised perfectly in your week, how cool.

It's great that Rick got out with you to Jef's reading. I'm still plugging for a good, steady recovery.

BONNIE K said...

I'm glad to hear you guys got out - that helps in the recovery. And I'm glad he's getting stronger every day. These things are not easy.

Becca said...

Such a time you've been through! Yes indeed, these are the kinds of trials that bring you up short and remind you to make the most of each day.

I'm glad he's doing better, and has that fighting spirit. Hang in there :)

Anonymous said...

Oh Jeanie! I haven't been in blog land much this month so I didn't see the post about Rick's accident until today! OMG! I am so glad to hear he is recuperating, up and about. We are all so lucky for the angels around us - I run into them regularly!

My thoughts and prayers are with you both... I hope the weather holds so Rick can climb back in the saddle once more before the snow flies. And I hope you are well and strong, too.

~*~Magpie's Nest said...

that was quite a performance on the ice...making it all look easy BIG on drama too with the walker!

great news that you and Rick got out, sending continued healing good wishes your way!

enjoy your weekend!
oxo

Rosa said...

Deary me, I have some catching up to do.. I'm happy to hear Rick is better, but I need to find out what happened. You have been so faithful in sending me well wishes. Thank you. Scott H. lives near me and his kids are always on our local ice here. How wonderful to hear he was out and about again. xoxo

shoreacres said...

Oh, my gracious. I keep telling myself I must never, ever forget to at least peek into everyone's blog, just to know what's happening, and I've been remiss.

I'm so glad to have started with the news that Rick's better - but you are the one who's had to live with the shock, anxiety and uncertainty. I'm so sorry - and so glad that he's on the mend.

You're certainly right that we draw on the energies of others. There's no doubt in my mind that getting out to the book signing was a good thing, and that every new step will multiply the good effect.

Now, I'll go read about all the details. Big hugs and hopes for beautiful getting-out weather from me to you.

Beth said...

Glad Rick is getting better. It will take time to heal as that was a rough crash. I Love Scott Hamilton too, very couragous.
I also love the cartoon Fraz, that is so cool that he is a friend of yours.
xoxoxooxox

Joanne Huffman said...

Here's to resilience! Recovery is slow and frustrating, so it's really nice to have events and milestones.

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