*To new readers: When I refer to Zelda (or Z), I am writing about my white cane. Thank you for reading “Stories from the Edge of Blindness”
Reluctant Side Kick
Zelda and I have reconciled, again. I suppose we are together for better or worse, but I am still her somewhat reluctant side kick, reluctant to give in and give over to her, to let her lead the way, but, my self guidance system is seriously faulty.
Joe and I were grocery shopping the other day – before I rescued Z from beneath a mound of coats and hats and bags, on the hat rack and I collided with a shopping cart that someone had left in the middle of an exit isle. It wasn’t a bad collision; I was just left with some bruises on my legs, but when it happened, I looked up at Joe and said,”I guess I could have used Zelda today”. He just smiled and nodded and we left the store.
As a result of this particular collision, I had to admit that I have been treating Joe unfairly. Whenever we go out together, I depend on him to keep me from collisions and falls and the always possible rage of strangers, but what about Zelda? If I had Z with me, Joe could shop and walk and roam to his heart’s content without having to worry about me the whole time. I have been so selfish. I have been telling myself that using or not using Zelda only affects me, and that simply isn’t true.
So, I have put Zelda back on a prominent hook, next to my purse and sweater, so I will be reminded to always bring her with me. I don’t want to need her, but sometimes I know I will, and when I no longer have the amount of useable vision I have now, I will be grateful that she and I have become well acquainted.
October 22, 2017 at 6:11 am
I will always be your other side kick.
October 24, 2017 at 7:11 pm
Your strength and courage are immeasurable. Some of the best relationships start off combative and forced in the beginning, but they become the most treasured.
October 25, 2017 at 6:17 am
I am going to keep your thoughtful and true words in my head and heart as I continue along this path. Thank you!
October 24, 2017 at 7:13 pm
WordPress HATES me!! It lost my comment and then, I posted a new one and it posted half of the other one. WTF?? HA! Anyway…
You are such a strong and honest person, and I respect you so much. Despite the fact that your vision is abandoning you, you still see so clearly and with so much empathy and beauty. Thank you for sharing your journey, please never stop. Lots of love to you…and Zelda! xo
October 25, 2017 at 6:20 am
If it’s any consolation, Word Press hates me too; I think I had to try and post my first ever comment to you like 12 times before it finally went through; I also have to admit some technological impatience on my part……
Your support of my journey and my writing is more valuable that I can express. Sending love and gratitude to you. xoxo