Time Well Spent

One of the things I’ve cherished the most over these last two months is the time I’ve spent with my nephews.  Out of everything my cervical dystonia has affected, that is the one I’ve regretted the most.  Now it seems I get to make up for lost time.

Owen has started teaching me all about football:  the best way to throw the ball, what to do when a teammate isn’t open, and the rules of the game.  I never had this kind of coaching when I was in Phy. Ed. classes, year after year.  While it isn’t easy and requires a lot of breaks, I feel supported by this 9 year-old who is taking the time to teach me about something he loves to play.

Oliver also enjoys playing football, but his real passion lies in using his hands.  He fixes, builds, and creates.  During his most recent visit, he took me through the steps of drawing an ocean.  We started with the waves and how to color them in.  Then we went on to the making of a sailboat, asking if I wanted it striped or solid.  There’s a different process for each so it does matter.  Lastly, the sailor was drawn on the deck. If I’d had Oliver as an art teacher when I was growing up, I’m pretty sure my view of creating art would be a lot more positive today.

He’s also really good with my furry kids.  If Morey is walking through the living room, you can be sure Oliver is right behind him, pretending to be a dog.  Putting their leashes on and taking them for walks are also strengths.  It’s great for me because two parts of my world are finally coming together.  The way I’ve wanted my life to be for a long time.

With all the insomnia issues, Owen has exhibited true compassion.  When we’re together, he asks me how I slept the night before.  When we’re not, he will ask my parents or say something about it to his.  The thing is, he’s not just making conversation.  He truly cares.

I see a lot of myself in these two boys and how I was as a child.  The challenges too.  But nothing can replace the opportunities I’ve had to get to know them over the past 8 weeks.  My hope is that it will continue.

My Hopes:  Is there anyone who has taken a backseat to other life events?  Someone special whom you’d really like to connect with again?  If so, it’s not too late.  With my limitations, there have been a few people whom I’ve lost touch with.  And now that I’m not a walking zombie anymore, I’m actually aware that this happened and have the ability to fix it.  I hope you can find a way to reach out and let these people know you are thinking about them.  We need all the support we can get!