Pay Attention

Knee replacement has given me a new perspective on what it means to pay attention. Being temporarily disabled, I've had to use a cane and a wheelchair. The cane slows me down, so I tend to appreciate the weather, the solid sidewalk, and the the outdoors in general a lot more. I've always been thankful for my surroundings, but going at a snail's pace makes me much more alert to what's around me.

Then there's the wheelchair. I used one when I went to the grocery store or any other big box store. When I shopped, previous to surgery, I tried to be aware of what was around me. I never wanted to step in front of someone else or get in the way, even though I probably did. Now from the perspective of a child's height, in a chair that I had to guide, my eyes were opened to the difficulty that comes from other people not seeing what's around them. People cut in front of me, or overlooked me and pushed past. Not everyone, but most. I did have a young man offer his help as well as an employee. And of course my husband. Then there were the items on out-of-reach shelves, especially the lower shelves. When the cans were pushed back I couldn't see them, let alone reach them by myself. Although I could stand to reach the top, many people can't.

Another observation I discovered is that many people who use the chairs have invisible disabilities. I tend to believe if someone is in a chair, they need to be. As soon as I am back on my feet, I'll offer my help. If people want it great, if not that's fine too.

My purpose in writing this little rant is to bring to attention the need to "pay attention." Be aware of surroundings. See who's beside you. Know what's going on. Offer a hand. Get out of the way. Be polite and compassionate. Just pay attention!