A Decade of Resilience: Embracing Gratitude and Overcoming Challenges
Ten years ago, on December 16, 2013, my life took an unexpected turn when I broke my neck. The following day, medical experts delivered a grim prognosis, forecasting a future where walking and even the use of my arms seemed unlikely. The harsh reality sunk in, and it appeared as though they might be right.
Movement below my neck was minimal; even shrugging my shoulders posed a challenge. Despite this, amid the despair, I made a conscious decision to leave the door of healing open, no matter how slight, clinging to hope and trust in my ability to recover.
The daring vision of skiing again fueled my determination.
For those who have followed my journey in recent years, you know that the story takes a turn for the better. Contrary to the medical predictions, I’ve experienced an extraordinary recovery from my spinal cord injury. My mechanism of injury and a successful surgery presented me with an opportunity to heal.
A degree of luck and relentless effort have helped me achieve a future I once struggled to imagine during the early stages of my rehabilitation. As a high-functioning, incomplete quadriplegic, I consider myself one of the luckiest of the unlucky. I still ask myself if it’s all real.
Did I genuinely bounce back? Is it possible that I bounced forward?
In celebration of my ten-year "neck-break-iversary," I embarked on a week-long adventure in a remote backcountry ski lodge, where I hike every run I ski, day after day. The physical exertion is demanding for anyone, but the triumph of each descent is sweeter, emphasized by the resilience that defines my experience.
To contextualize the challenges I've faced, I wouldn't wish a spinal cord injury on my worst enemy. The devastation extends beyond the individual, affecting families and those closest to the injured. Yet, within the adversity lies the potential for unexpected gifts — a perspective shift that hinges on one's outlook.
Perspective is everything.
One invaluable gift I acquired was a profound sense of gratitude. As signs of physical recovery materialized, waves of overwhelming gratitude surged through me. At a time when my peripheral nervous system remained unresponsive, my emotional body came alive, allowing me to feel joy, love, grief, suffering, and, notably, gratitude. Harnessing the power of gratitude became a healing force, unleashing neurohormones and neurotransmitters that propelled my physical and emotional recovery.
It's difficult articulating the benefits of adopting a grateful-every-day mentality. While my situation is unique, the transformative power of gratitude is universally accessible. Post-traumatic growth is not the exclusive path to this perspective shift; anyone can embrace a grateful perspective.
If you've come this far with me, thank you.
As I conclude, I implore you to intentionally practice gratitude. Cultivate awareness of the gifts in your life — the people, your health, opportunities, and the silver linings amid difficulties. Acknowledge the positive elements even on the toughest days. Nothing in life is guaranteed, but appreciating the present moment enhances fulfillment.
Navigating life's challenges can be demanding, but when we shift our focus from the gaps to the gifts, we cultivate resilience and the ability not only to overcome difficulties but to leap forward. I genuinely hope, like me, you'll surpass your expectations and soar to new heights of fulfillment.
With Gratitude,
Mike
