“There are only 2 ways to live your life, one is as if nothing is a miracle, the other is as though everything is a miracle” – Albert Einstein. At 18 months when my daughter wasn’t walking and barely able to pull herself up and stand on her own her PT recommended an Orthopedist visit. She was fitted for braces and the day she got them within just moments she stood up, her legs straightened, came together and she started walking. She has gross motor delay or as her PT likes to say “She is just really bendy.” Although delay is one of the describing words I can think of many others that fit her better, the first one that comes to mind is determined. Wearing braces doesn’t hinder her it makes her stronger. She is very good about wearing them and will even initiate wearing them by getting them out of the closet and either bringing them to us or just trying to put them on by herself, full of determination. She wears laced shoes to allow for extra room for the braces, no convenience or ease of velcro for this little girl, as a result I believe she will learn to tie her shoes very early. Just think how much better your life could be if you were bendy not delayed? Instead of being slowed down by something, learn from it and let the knowledge nurture you and help you grow. Just think about while traveling down a windy road there are markers placed along the way to keep you on the right path. So many times obstacles arise in life to keep us on the right path too. Slow down and appreciate these times instead of rushing them and wishing them away and reflect on what you learned. Does it take extra time to get ready and out the door? Sure. Sometimes she has a fit because she wants more than anything to independently complete the task on her own. This morning I switched things up a bit and for the first time I asked my son to help her get her shoes on, with no problem he had a brace on the correct foot fastened perfectly and all the while she sat there patiently working on tying a shoe. I froze, said nothing and just enjoyed the moment. I saw teamwork, patience, kindness and so much love between a brother and sister. Travel down Bendy street, see the miracles at each curve and let them guide you and fill you with determination to live your best life.
BrielleStreet7 