I’ve been a little bobble-headed since I came down from the mountain, where my mobility disorder had been stabilized. Maybe a lot bobble-headed. My exercises haven’t gotten me back. It's a matter of the right combination. It’s doable.
But I needed to go to the store, get supplies for my spouse’s Ofrenda. The question, should I take and use my cane. A friend gave me one, and it is good when I really need it. Did I need it just to go to the store? Decided yes, I might have a walk to get to the grocery carts.
Canes are more than assistive devices. They are a symbol.
My cane is black, unobtrusive. I like to get the job done, not stand out. I have a friend who has a hot shimmering gold cane. She likes to be noticed. My grandfather was blind, had a white cane, which is the symbol for blind: Watch out for the carrier, Look after him or her. He carried the cane when he went into town. When he went across the fields and fences to fish, I was his white cane. I was to make sure he knew where he was and get help if he needed it.
My decision about taking a cane involved more than needing assistance. Did I need or want anyone assisting me, other than the cane? Do I need someone helping me across the street? Opening doors for me?
My escapade at the airport a while back involved magnifying my cane. I did need help. I needed special regulations and help. Along with my cane symbol, I worked to make my appearance match my vulnerability. This was totally different.
At the store, I scored a small cart, the cane stuck out the side, quite a lot. I didn’t run into anybody, but the cane was very obvious. People kept out of my way. Lethal weapon sticking out of cart.
Checking out with my few groceries, I went to self check out. I like this option. I can check prices as I scan the goods. I can also pack my own groceries so the bread and fruit doesn’t get mashed in with the canned goods.
The self check overseer decided she would help me. Zip Zip. She had me checked out, grabbed my groceries, scanned them through ahead of me, piled things in bags, deposited them in my cart. What the F? Cart rolling towards the door.
Did I ask for her help? Intrusion? Maybe so. I don’t exactly look feeble, but I do have some age on me and I had…
The CANE
A symbol: Help this person. Suck it up. Maybe the next person through will need help and appreciate it
I did have the last word, though. I re-bagged one of my items.
Contemplation: What messages are we sending?
Let me know how you are doing. I care.
Sincerely,
Lynn Brooke
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Photo Credit: © 2023 Rachel Gareau
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