What an Adventure
Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Colossians 3:12 (ESV)
It has now been five weeks since I fractured my pelvis and I am improving every day. Little by little I am making progress and am becoming more independent. I continue to rely on my walker and can only take a few short steps without it. So yesterday I decided to spread my wings.
Having never driven an electric cart, Michael was very patient and showed me how to navigate. Probably Walmart on a Friday morning was not the smartest idea, but nevertheless, with lists in hand, he went one way and I went the other. My first go-buggy had issues—it died—stopped and blocked the big aisle and the entrance to another.
Oh, the looks I got! I wanted to show an ugly side and yell, “Yes, I planned this. I really wanted to inconvenience you today and I am not sorry you can’t get through here.” I said none of those words. I just kept smiling ever so sweetly. The following would have been a great verse at the time: Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:32 (ESV), but I was too embarrassed and irritated with the other shoppers.
The second electric buggy had lots of speed and it took some time getting used to it. In the craft department, I did not maneuver around a corner very well and ran into an end display of glass plant dishes. One side came unhinged and about twenty of them slowly slid forward to the lip of the shelf. I waited for the crash but there was none.
I quickly backed up (beeping all the way) and left the craft department almost as good as I found it.
Why did I share this adventure? People who drive the electric carts don’t want to be tethered. They are being independent to the best of their ability. Please be patient and perhaps a short healing prayer might be a great idea. The rolling of the eyes, huffing and puffing, and angry faces do not help the situation. I saw it all on Friday. I now have been on both sides as driver and shopper.
Laughing at life is imperative! When I disclosed my adventure with Michael and a couple of friends, we laughed. My world seemed lighter. Be kind and patient. Who knows, someone may have to teach you to drive an electric cart in the future.
Heavenly Father, please give me patience to deal with my own infirmities and a kind heart for those who are in a hurry. AMEN.