Lessons learned from a tumble

Last week, I fractured my ankle. It was like something out of a movie, and my ankle dislocated, causing the fracture. I completely forgot about a step and my attempt to walk on air proved unsuccessful. I spent some time beating myself up about the fall, but it didn’t take long for me to realize that there was a lesson (make that a few lessons) that I needed to get from this experience.

I’ve decided to humbly share them with you:

1. Being along is great, but there will be times when you need someone
   
   Last week, I wrote a blog post where I talked about the benefits of alone time. As an introvert, I don’t mind time by myself, alone with my thoughts. Being alone is great when you can take care of yourself and don’t need anyone’s help to do anything. It didn’t take long after writing that post, one day to be specific, for me to realize that there are times when having people around you is for your own good. Even introverts can benefit from being surrounded by people who genuinely care about you and your wellbeing. It reminded me that while I’m comfortable being a lone wolf, it’s important not to close myself off from others. We never know when we might need each other!
2. There’s nothing wrong with leaning on someone for support

   This is my first time using crutches. Sometimes, you need support and crutches make things awkward. My husband was trying to help me and for some reason I was reluctant to put my weight on him, even though he told me it was okay, and it was the best thing for my fractured ankle. It made me realize that I need to get over my issues with feeling like I’m being a burden to someone, whether that’s physically or emotionally. It’s funny how you can be willing to support others, but struggle to receive support from anyone. I’m sure there’s a psychological explanation for why I struggle to ask for help in some circumstances. It’s something I’ve gotten better at, but clearly there’s more work to be done!

3. Be careful what you ask for!

   The holidays are right around the corner, and I’ve been thinking that I really want a quiet few weeks, and was trying to figure out how to navigate that… Well it looks like I got what I was asking for since my mobility is pretty limited right now. A friend found me a wheelchair, but it’s not one of those that you can wheel yourself around in, it’s one where you have to be pushed (so much for wanting to be independent! HA!) Clearly this wasn’t what I had planned when I said I didn’t want to do much this holiday season, but you know what they say, you plan and God laughs. I was also planning to take a break from drinking alcohol this holiday season and now I have to since I’m on two painkillers (doh!).

Now that my flashbacks of the fall have dissipated, I’m not feeling as bad about the fall as I was a few days ago. My hubby’s been amazing at helping me and I’m grateful he’s putting up with my clumsy behind. He’s proclaming himself the G.H.O.A.T. (Greatest Husband Of All Time), I think he may be going overboard with the claim, but with our anniversary and his birthday coming up, I’m sure I’ll find a way to show my appreciation for his efforts. ?