The Benefits of Challenges

I have noticed a lot this year, that no one knows what they have until it is gone. No one appreciates gifts and talents until they are no longer there. This past June, I had back surgery. I had scoliosis, which is a curvature of the spine. I had to get two rods screwed into my back or else my life would have made a drastic change. I would have been hunched over so much that I would have been unable to walk. I would have been in a wheel chair for the rest of my life. When I first had this surgery done, I did not feel like it was a positive thing in any aspect. I have come to realize, that it was a blessing. First, I have bonded with my family because of it. Second, I am now able to understand the struggles that many people go through. Third, I have become more grateful for my physical abilities. This was a great experience not only for me, but for my family as well.

First, I have bonded with my family because of this surgery. My parents have always taught me that serving others with help us grow stronger and closer to the one we serve. I did not realize or believe it until it was demonstrated earlier this year. My family had the chance to serve me, and help me through this hard time. They would feed me while I was in bed, give me pedicures, and do my hair. Obviously when you are in pain, you feel helpless, lazy, and ugly. It really does make a big difference to have someone serving you and making you feel better about yourself. As a result of all this service, we bonded and became closer as a family. This is not the only benefit I had from this surgery.

Second, I am now able to understand the struggles of others better. I feel for people who are not as fortunate as I am, and have health issues. I especially feel for those who have physical health issues. I made cheerleading at the end of last year, and have had to sit out this whole school year watching everyone do everything that I can’t. Although this has gone on for six months, I am now healed and am so grateful that I am able to do everything.

Third, I have become for grateful for my physical abilities. No one really thinks about when they jog to catch up with a friend that is walking ahead of you. No one really thinks about jumping up and down when they are excited. No one really thinks about bending down to pick up a pencil. No one really thinks about twisting around to talk to a friend, until you can’t do it any more. I was not able to do any of these things for six months, and now that I am able to do them, I am more grateful that I can. I feel so free now that I am able to do all of these things!

In conclusion, physical set backs are not always a bad thing, they actually have benefits. They help you grow closer to your family members and those around you, you understand the struggles of some others, and you become more grateful for your physical abilities after you have gone with out doing them for so long.