My mom had a stroke on Feb. 26. She slowly started to come back, first
slurring her words, then speaking a little, slowly moving her left hand and
leg; everything happening slowly. She spent seven weeks in the hospital the
last two weeks were long days of waiting, waiting for a bed to open up in
rehab so she could start her recovery in earnest. Finally last Thursday I
helped her move to the rehab center. The elevator has a sign in it that
says “This door remains open for 15 seconds”. Fifteen seconds is a long time
for a physically healthy person, who is always in a hurry doing things and
going places. I read the sign and thought about how I am always rushing, moving, in a hurry to
get to the next place. For me that sign was a reminder to slow down. Enjoy the moment, even if
it’s not a comfortable moment, it is a moment in life and it needs to be appreciated for what it is.
My mother can no longer be that person in a hurry. Even if recovery is great, there will be things
to slow her down, and maybe, just maybe she will be happy slowing down, enjoying the moments.
I share this with you to remind you that spring is here, breathe, spend time with your family
and appreciate the moments. Good and bad.
Peace, Thea

Posted by Thea Shapiro, DRE on April 16th, 2009