What I’ve Lost

In filling out my application for Social Security Disability, I was asked what things I did before my disability that I’m no longer able to do. I made a list that was submitted, and I want to share some of that list with you.

Before I share my list, I want you to know why I’m sharing the list. Someone is going to accuse me of throwing a pity party, but that’s far, far from my intentions. I’m going to list the things I’ve lost without comment. Tomorrow, however, I’m going to start sharing the things I have gained. I’ve gained far more meaningful things than I have lost. I’ve been blessed beyond measure. Thus, I want to put the things I’ve lost in proper context; I want to help us look on the sunny side of life. To get there, I want us to look at the bad that we might value the good all the more.

What can I no longer do?

• Jog
• Climb more than two or three steps
• Bend over to pick things up (most days)
• Shovel snow (I tried today; it didn’t work)
• Mow my lawn (I love mowing, too)
• Sit comfortably for more than 30 minutes
• Walk long distances
• Work full-time (and my doctor says I never will again)
• Go a day without pain
• Throw a baseball with my sons

I didn’t put all these things on my “official” list, but they are real. I have lost the ability to do some things I really enjoyed doing. That’s okay – I’ve gained far more than I’ve lost. In fact, it’ll probably take me the rest of the week to tell you everything I’ve gained. Until then, be blessed!