Ever heard of calcaneal bursitis? I hadn't either and I really would have preferred to keep it that way.
At the risk of moaning, these past few months have been pain-filled but even the throbbing soreness isn't the most difficult part of it all; it's not being able to go for a walk that hurts the most.
As anyone with this or a similar issue can probably attest, the ability to stand fully upright while navigating across the room, the road or a grocery aisle shrinks in proportion to the speed at which swelling in the foot increases. But enough of that, I have several far more important observations to share.
First thought: until now I considered the concept of going for a walk as somewhat of a no-brainer. You simply put on your shoes and jacket, if necessary, and off you go. Depending on your schedule or purpose, a route is chosen and you walk. In contrast, a recent attempt to stroll to the nearby post box produced enough excruciating pain to merit tears. My appreciation for handicap signs has risen to new levels.
Next: there's a parallel challenge between walking uprightly and consistently in the physical world and in the world of ethical behaviour. I have a new appreciation for the barriers faced by many who would dearly love a change in lifestyle but struggle to overcome their pain. It's so easy to throw out admonitions to "get a job," "stop your behaviour" or "don't give in to habits," but who of us hasn't struggled with temptations? They just might not be the same ones.
"Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted." Galatians 6:1-NKJV
Don't judge until we've walked a mile.
