December 10, 2018. Today marks 2 weeks since a hurried scurry in my driveway left me flat against the concrete wondering briefly what all have I broken? And who saw me fall? Good news on all fronts – nothing broken and no distressed neighbors hovering. I got myself up slowly, marveling that everything still worked, and began puzzling why I tripped on something always right there, why on the day before I go to my aunt’s 94th birthday, why, why, why?
Richard Wehrman’s poem “Traveling” helps make sense of a seemingly senseless stumble. I’ve added bloom and swirl to a photo of my purple-puffed chin.
P.S. I am back to normal skin tones. More attentive in the driveway. Pondering still.
stepsandpauses 
Standing still is most definitely not an option! I tripped and fell just yesterday, while doing laundry. Am grateful to have suffered only a few bruises and slight muscle strains, and am in total agreement with “embracing Here Now…”
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I feel like my fall was a gift of sorts (certainly the nothing broken was a gift!) – and those bruises were a reminder every time I encountered a mirror for long enough that I couldn’t just write it off.
I’d like to think I “got it” and won’t need another tumble reminder. You, too – stay upright so you can keep writing poems!!
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With each mishap, I tend to think, “Well, fewer of those, with less time ahead.” But , actually there seem to be more!
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Ken, I think you’re right, that no matter what precautions I just learned about tripping in the driveway, some scenario slightly different will present down the line and I will “fall for it”. I’ve apparently got strong bones that don’t crack easily … yet … so far, more to be thankful for than worried about!
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I can totally identify. Today I tripped over a rug at the edge of the doorway at the grocery store. I am always left feeling shook, and thankful. Thanks for your words
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Good that we are resilient – in body and especially in attitude! Thanks for letting me know I’m not alone in my tripping.
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Been there, done that!! Glad you are OK!
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Oh dear – another of us!
Thank you – I am lucky to be fine.
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It is amazing how the body heals itself – most of the time. I am glad that you are seeing this stumble as a gift. The universe has interesting ways of teaching us about life and mindfulness. Great post and I love what you did with the photo.
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Luanne, thank you – I had fun with the photo! I believe EVERYthing is a message … many overlooked due to distractions … and that sometimes the Universe gets a tad dramatic to get my attention.
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So sorry to hear about your fall, Jazz. Never a welcome trial. Sounds like you dealt with it philosophically – hope you are recovering well. Falling “into silent awareness” – love this line. It certainly shakes us up.
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VJ, thank you – today makes 3 weeks since damages, with visible traces all vanished. But the inner jolt is likely (hopefully) permanent. Gotta watch where I’m stepping!!
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Lucky, I guess, that it wasn’t worse.
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