Several weeks ago I ran into a wall. Not once, but twice. The second time was a harsh reminder that the first time hurt! Both events occurred within minutes of each other in my first squash game for many years. It was as if returning to the courts reignited my competitive love for the game. As I played on, the pain in my hand and wrist went from a brief sharp pain to something that told me it was intense and here to stay.
With time, the pain comes and then hides. Most of the time, there is a lingering ache that one can push through. At the opposite end of the spectrum, there is a pattern of hand movements that bring me right back to the first time I ran into the wall. With the sharp pain always comes a plea for help. With emotions a drama queen would be proud of I find myself repeating a Psalm prayer. “I’ve lost it. I’m wasted. God – quickly, quickly! Quick to my side, quick to my rescue! God, don’t lose a minute.” (Psalm 70.5) Help.
I do not think my emotional state in an intense hand induced moment is unique. Others have run into walls that are taller, harder, and able to inflict more pain than the one I encountered. Attacks come in all shapes in sizes. The pain inflictors are many. What these events share is the effect that they have physically and emotionally. Their impact tears our hearts. The results pull what binds us together apart. It is ugly and painful.
In repeating the psalm in any form, I find myself releasing the emotional shackles to a greater power. As I do this, I realize I am asking for and opening myself up to help. Each time I do, Compassion responds, Empathy embraces, and Love begins to heal. Divinity is reflected in this response, inviting you and me to be a partner in making a difference to the community we find ourselves in.
My wrist reminds me that life is shaped by our response.
