The rehab hospital where I go is brand new and state-of–the-art. It is full of patients who are learning to walk again, using their upper body, and overcoming loss of mental faculties due to strokes. Many are confined to wheel chairs or using walkers. I was confined for a short period of time and have a much better appreciation for what they are going through. I feel lucky in that I have had life experiences that have put me in “another’s shoes.”
We can’t really appreciate those who are hungry every day unless, we have been hungry ourselves. We can’t really identify with those in prison, unless we have been confined ourselves. Homeless, unemployed, abused, are human conditions that are hard to fully understand unless you have been there, yet I wouldn’t wish those conditions on anyone.
I don’t suggest we make a conscious effort to walk in another’s shoes, but we are better off to realize what another is going through and to be a little more sympathetic and kind.
It is a good reminder for me to go to rehab although I am way past needing wheelchairs, walkers, or canes. Rehab makes me physically stronger physically, but seeing others there makes me more appreciative and a lot better human being.
PS: Today marks the 2750th post at The Hubbell Pew. Thank you all who have supported my feeble musings and post over the years. Do you think we will make it to 3000?
Of course.