A view of California’s Lost Coast. Taylor Smith

Catch em’ off guard.
Give them something they aren’t expecting.
Prove their assumptions false.

In the last week, I’ve encountered many stares and heard “ohhh, that must hurt,” more than a dozen times. When people see my full-length leg brace, their associations are probably pain, setback and quite frankly, some form of vexation.

While I don’t want to put words in people’s mouths, or assume I know the thoughts in their heads, I’m guessing that most expect me to feel a little beat and maybe lamenting this hitch in active lifestyle.

But I expected such when I went into my surgery last week. I knew that most thought I would be sad and frustrated. I even expected that I would feel those things. A lot.

So, I decided to give people a little run for their money.

When I walked into the doctor’s office yesterday for my first post-operation appointment, shuffling up the sidewalk with my one crutch, pumping my arm to get me to the door, I took a deep breath and plotted the final details of my little experiment.

From the minute I signed my name onto the check-in sheet, I made the commitment to be as positive as possible. When someone asked me how I was doing, I gave them an honest response.

I’m joyful for the opportunity to get around as well as I can. I’m grateful that I have a team of people who are working to help me heal as soon as possible. I’m hopeful that each day I’m getting stronger and love the time I’m getting to spend with my family and friends.

In my opinion, there is a lot to be positive about. I’m of the mindset that when we put our positive energy out into the world, putting up powerful prayers to God, there is no reason to doubt the potential of God’s abilities.
I mean, He conquered death … and this is just a knee surgery! With Him holding me, I can certainly get through the pain.

And that’s what I’m going to keep thinking. It’s momentary pain, momentary bruising, momentary gimpy-ness.

After all, I recently heard that worrying is praying for something that you don’t want.

So worries -negative thoughts- let’s just say they aren’t part of my recovery plan.