As many of you know I haven't been driving for well over a year now. I gave it a try a few months ago and got to the end of the street and headed straight back. My interaction with the public world has been pretty limited. I've been feeling better lately and can definitely "handle" more. It's great really. I don't get overwhelmed as easily! This may not be something that makes sense to everyone, but I know a few of you will understand. Anyways, I've gotten out to do a few more things lately.
It's interesting as you try to acclimate to the world. I remember early on, smells really bothering me. I'm still not a big fan of smells, I haven't been for awhile. But man alive the world was SO smelly!! Smelly like laundry soap and fabric softeners. Smelly like perfumes - oh boy!! Do people even realize how hard this is for some people?! Anyways, that was a side note. Ha ha
Today, I opted to run into the fabric store with my daughter to help her pick out material for her next sewing project. This is the second time I have used a credit card machine recently that has made me realize - I don't get out much! LOL Today I swiped my credit card, my daughter took the bags, and I went to walk off!! Oh wait, I'm supposed to sign!! LOL Well, not only am I supposed to sign, I'm supposed to insert, not swipe. And oh I thought this had a chip, but where is it and where do I insert?!?! Thankfully the man was very sweet and patient as I fumbled along. He said, Don't worry I have a 4-year old, I'm very patient. Ha ha Was that supposed to be comforting?! LOL
The other day, the kids had finished some stuff with their summer reading program. So we decided to cash in for their free Chipotle prizes at the library, get some books, and head to Chipotle. While at the library, I had to run to the restroom - so I left the kids with my husband. I walked straight into the men's restroom without even thinking! At first, it seemed a little strange, it seemed a little smaller or something. Then I realized the line of urinals along the wall and almost died. I high tailed it out of there so fast!!!
The conclusions to this week's adventures...I'm definitely handling more and doing well, but I really can't be trusted alone in public just yet!!! LOL Watch out though world - Chrissy is on her way back!
At the end of the day, it helps you realize how much these simple things, we have all grown accustomed to, can be so difficult for those with chronic illnesses, brain damage, someone coming from a different country who may not speak our language, etc etc. As you go throughout your day today, don't be so rushed that you can't take the time to notice someone in need around you. There may be someone coming from another country and they might feel so overwhelmed by not understanding anything around them. There might be a new Mom trying to figure out how to handle a baby AND go grocery shopping at the same time. There may be a lady who looks fine on the outside, but she's in such chronic pain she can't concentrate long enough to decide which item is best suited for her. Maybe there is a child who is so consumed with a devastating situation at home that they are unaware of their surroundings and bump into you. We all come with all sorts of baggage. Some "baggage" is easy to see - the man in the wheel chair who needs you to help him open the door. The old lady in the parking lot who needs a hand loading her groceries. Other baggage isn't as easy to see. Try to slow down in the midst of the craziness to show patience and love to those around you - you never know what they are facing!
