I think it a bit ironic that my OLW for 2018 is momentum. “Momentum” is defined as speed of movement, and since my knee replacement surgery two weeks ago, my physical speed of movement has been seriously lacking. I am grateful for in-home physical therapy, friends who visit and bring dinners, and my attentive full-time husband-nurse. But I am anxious to get moving again. People have reminded me that healing takes time, and that I need to be kind to myself. While I am improving every day, I think I expected quicker results.
As I was preparing for surgery, I was concentrating on momentum in a different context – my writing. It is the start of a new year, and I want to keep the momentum of gathering ideas for writing going strong. I took my journal to the hospital and even managed to jot down some free verse poems and things I noticed and wondered about. But still, I am impatient, and at times frustrated.
This morning as I was reflecting on what to write in today’s post, I realized that lessons learned from my physical healing apply to my writing life as well. Healing and writing both take time, and it is important in both contexts to be kind to yourself. But you have to keep the momentum going. My doctor reminded me that I am a big part of my recovery. It is easy to skip the important exercises for any number of reasons, but recovery takes effort and I am responsible for that. So too with writing. It is hard work, but the effort will eventually pay off if we keep the momentum going.
Let’s get moving!
Imagine the Possibilities 
Rose, I totally relate to your post. I had total knee replacement in 2013. I waited until after my daughter’s wedding and took off from work 3 months so I could take my time healing. It is such a process but in the end it is worth the pain and grueling exercise routine. Momentum is what you need to guide you through this year. Great word! Best wishes for a happy recovery!
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Thanks, Carol! So many people have told me I will be glad I did this. I’m not quite there yet, but I know it will come.
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Glad you are healing and allowing yourself the time to heal (even though you want it done now). You are right, writing is hard work, but so worth the effort. I’m sure your word, momentum, will keep you moving.
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Thanks for posting this. Hang in there. It will take time, but healing will happen. You will improve and as you do, the momentum will kick in and take you to full recovery.
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I love your connect between your surgery and your writing life. I am trying to build momentum myself…and yes, I could say in even more than my writing life. Here’s to a more speedy recovery!
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Such an inspiring post! Hope your recovery is going well!
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Hang in there. It is the little steps that make a big difference. I love the comparison to writing. For me it is the little steps I take that keep me writing! Thanks and cheers!
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Glad recovery is going well for you, Rose. Why is it that we are most impatient with ourselves when it comes to recuperating?
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Yes, we have to be kind to ourselves. Wish you a good recovery. Regards
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Amen to the healing and writing time. It is so true. I know you will feel so much better soon. xo nanc
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At least it a good time of year to huddle inside and be cozy… and so many books to read in preparation for the Caldecott and Newbury awards! I have no doubt the writing will come as well — momentum is the perfect word. Hang in there — this too will pass. How about holding that baby??!!
Clare
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