Beyond the reflection of gratitude, the demand for a response to one’s trials invariably rears its head. “How do you do it”? “As an active person, this must be so hard for you”. “You must be so frustrated”. “This will be driving you crazy”. “You’re going to need drugs to get you through this!”. “A fractured pelvis & hip, that’s nothing to be smiling about”. An ongoing string of well-meaning, sympathy bearing comments from people expressing support.
Despite these considerations a quiet and constant melody, frequently pushes its way through the turmoil of my spirit, reminding me of its laser focus on my current situation. The old steadfast hymn “It is Well With My Soul”. Totally applicable. It IS well with my soul, (just not some of my bones). The irony of the presence of this specific song in my mind is not lost on me. Aptly referencing the conditions in which my injuries were sustained, “When sorrows like sea billows roll”! This definitely sounds like the 20+ knot Fremantle Doctor and 2.5+meter waves off Fremantle Sailing Club on the day. Nonetheless, “Whatever my lot thou hast taught me to say it is well, it is well, with my soul”.
Three blogs later, I finally see an opportunity to quote one of my most favourite entrepreneurial leaders and educators, Stephen Covey. “Between stimulus and response, there is a space where we choose our response”. “Happiness like unhappiness, is a proactive choice”. Similar psychology to Horatio Spafford’s, ‘It Is Well’ in 1873. Proactive resistance or proactive acceptance. The choice is totally mine.
Lewis Carol’s interpretation on these deep psychological questions is creative and refreshing.
“What matters is how far we go? His scaly friend replied.
There is another shore, you know, upon the other side.
The further off from England, the nearer is to France-
Then turn not pale, beloved snail, but come and join the dance.
Will you, wont you,will you, wont you, will you join the dance?
Will you, wont you, will you, wont you, wont you join the dance?” Alice’s Adventure Wonderland.
Through Caroll’s eyes, choice is an invitation. What is this invitation? What is this dance? What’s on the other shore? I don’t have the answers, but I certainly have the choice. Accept the invitation, reframe the experience. Turn up the tunes. Bring out the subwoofer. “It is Well”.
