Living with an open heart is like a flower that blooms in the sunlight and gently folds in the rain. Flowers close to protect their nectar just like I close to protect my joy if I think it’s in jeopardy. Life rains on us sometimes, and what matters is whether we are willing to open back up. Despite chronic pain, vestibular and cognitive challenges, and the daily unpredictability of stroke recovery, I still show up. I still open myself to joy through connection, creativity, and exercise. And on days like today, when my symptoms are yelling at me, I show up anyway even if I need to nap most of the day.
Change and growth happen when desire meets action. I had a desire to stop drinking, but real change didn’t happen until I was willing to do the work. That’s how I’ve approached stroke recovery. I’ve had an incredible desire to exercise, but with difficulty tolerating visual movement, it’s been a challenge to find the solution. But where there’s a will, there’s a way! Rucking and yoga have finally made their way into my regular routine, and I’m overjoyed.
Joy lives inside me. It’s the nectar in the flower. It’s always there, waiting to surface when I open myself to life exactly as it is. Even on the days that feel heavy, I bloom. I can trust the process, trust my growth, and open my heart again.
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To learn more about vestibular disorders visit https://vestibular.org
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