How Lucky We Are

Every year I believe many of us forget how lucky we are. The last two years, over the Christmas Holidays, I have spent my time recovering from bilateral total knee replacement, both knees at the same time, and this year, ankle surgery, to repair torn ligaments and a fractured fibula! I am not complaining, too much, but one was elective, the knees, tho other was not.
Yes, they were and are a inconvenience, particularly during the holidays. But it really made me stop and think about those who are disabled 365 days a year and for the rest of their lives. I bring this up because for the past two years I have had the privilege of taking a friend of mine deer hunting who is now a paraplegic, confined to a wheelchair for the rest of his life. I can’t even imagine what that would be like. I know how frustrating it was and is just dealing with my two surgeries. What I do know and have come to realize is that it takes a special person of tremendous courage and will power to endure the challenges of everyday life, I mean the simplest task’s many of us take for granted.
I honestly think, in this case, the love for the outdoors, his passion to do what he loved before his accident, has allowed my friend to move forward with his life in as normal of a way as possible. I believe it motivates him each and every day and I am certain that if it were not for the passion he has for fishing, hunting, 4 wheeling, snowmobiling and etc… he would have had a very difficult time.
For all of you who are like my friend, you are my heroes and you inspire people like me to overcome the minor challenges we face.
I am thankful too that I have a similar passion for the outdoors and all that it offers. I do know how lucky we are.
The Outdoor Quaterback