How positivity works is the theme today. Do you even believe that.. a little? I’m going to give you a real life example.
The Area of Health
This is a big one for me right now. Although I’ve needed knee replacement surgery for decades, I wasn’t ready until late last year. Here I am in a new state, didn’t know anyone before I moved here and I’m having major surgery.
Positivity Helps Make Difficult Decisions
When I made the discovery appointment with Dr. Benjamin Parker, I knew the time was now. Everyone from the intern to reception commented on my positive attitude.
Thirty one days later, my neighbor dropped me off at the ER entrance at 5:30 am. I’m positively giddy with excitement. I banter with everyone; the person doing the COVID checks, the admission lady, and the nurse in the surgery prep waiting room.
A Positive Attitude is Catching
Since I had my cell phone, I took a before picture of my legs in pre-op. Everyone is in a good mood. Why is that? Part of it is my good mood. Energy is like that. Good vibes spread out in ripples and anyone who is open to my energy gets a little boost.
I noticed the clock… 6:45 am just before the nurse anesthetist administers my anesthesia. Next thing I know, it’s 10:37 am. I’m in exactly the same location only now I have a new knee. And I am still in a marvelous dream state. The smile on my face is just as broad as it was at 6:45 am. The surgery went well, everyone’s happy.
Requests are Met With Joy
Soon I’m in my room, various medical personnel filtering in and out, asking if I need anything. Coffee… that would be nice. Poof! A warm cup of Joe with creamer is in my hand. Even lunch was tasty. Wouldn’t another cup of coffee be nice?
‘Could I have a cup of coffee?’
‘Here you go.’
After lunch Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy arrive.
‘How about a little walk?’
‘Sure!’
The plan is a quick education on using a walker. Then a short walk to the door of my room. In contrast, I’m ready for more.
‘How about we go to the hand sanitizer next to the room across the hall?’
The experience of walking on an new knee was other-worldly. It was like a big cloud sponge under my right foot.
I gently sit down in the chair next to my bed. It’s 2:22 pm.
‘How far do you think I walked?’
‘About 40 feet.’
I celebrate with a fist pump!
Obstacles Disappear
My doctor decided I should stay over in the hospital one night for observation because the only person at home is my 93-year-old mother.
There’s one more little reason… I need to learn how to navigate stairs.
The stairwell is right next to my room. Up with the good foot. Down with the surgery foot. It was a piece of cake. Of course, the PT and OT girls have this big belt around my chest for safety and I was so thankful I’ve been exercising with a trainer for over 3 years prior. My arm strength came in real handy.
Positivity is Easy to Maintain
Here it is almost 3 weeks since surgery and I’m just as excited with each new challenge. My range of motion exercises progressed quickly, achieving my 4-week goal at 2 weeks. Now I’ve graduated to strengthening exercises because I’ve passed the knee flexibility test.
Some Parting Wisdom
All this positivity didn’t come overnight. It helps that I’m naturally a positive person. Even so, I practice mindful meditation daily with Ten Percent Happier. Furthermore, I include a Loving Kindness meditation each night before sleep.
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