Okay, you thought I was going to write about a movie I haven’t seen yet? Nope. Yesterday, I had a large piece of food lodged in my windpipe. And, I experienced the Heimlich maneuver for the very first (and last) time. Only one person, just ONE, has been told the complete, second-by-second story.
Today, as I sit here nursing soreness, headache and a dry cough, I feel joy even while the memory of the panic and terror I experienced is still fresh in my mind. I am thankful that my lunch date knew what to do. I am thankful for the restaurant staff that quickly came to my aid, and their patience. I am thankful for the profound coolness that prevailed over the scene.
And, I’m rather surprised by my own behavior. Once my ordeal was over, standing there in bewilderment and relief, I started chuckling. Quietly and hoarsely at first, then louder. I’m certain my booming voice resounded and echoed against the smooth glass walls. In harmony with the laughter, I spewed out “I’m sorry” several times. I genuinely felt bad for the restaurant, worried that I might have lost customers for them. Don’t think that happened, fortunately.
Today is a day of celebration for me. Yes, thoughts of "if I had died, who would come to my funeral”, and “I haven’t finished all I want to accomplish here" raced through my mind. Done with that. I know there's so much to look forward to. And forward it shall be. Back to “the usual” I go, changed somewhat. Now even more fine-tuned to appreciating everything around me, those around me are likely to witness a frequent, slight upturning of one side of my mouth into a grateful, goofy grin.
As the song by Climax says “precious and few are the moments….”
12 comments:
How grateful we are that it worked out. Close call!
Hang onto the lesson. Hang onto the moment. Hang onto the childlike awe of life. You matter to me. I'm glad you are here.
Wow, that's an awesome story!
Thank God, you are here and well!
It truly was a precious moment in that moment. As a result, every moment thereafter is even more precious.
Thank you for sharing your story and for being here.
Great post...and I agree with sean, hang on to the moment. You inspire me, I have just started writing again as well-keep it up, I look forward to reading more! :)
Good for you Gerry, that you were able to step outside of the experience as it was occurring, to retain all the details -- sights, sounds, patience of others, feelings in your body, fleeting thoughts -- then to gift it unto others in a blog post.
I love how you took the full journey of emotion... Panic, fear, despair, self-pity, then crazy giggles, introspection, quiet joy and lasting peace. Amazing to find it all in a moment
Even our worst, most embarassing and frightening experiences seem to bring with them a silver lining, don't they? So glad you are alright and that there was someone there who knew what to do. Blessings.
Wow, you see... it was not your T.I.M.E.!
Life is precious! Live Life Alive and & breathe deeply with every breath as if it were your last!
Great blog, thanks to @Sean_Kinney for pointing me to your blog!
Filling your page with gratitude!
Smiles & sparkles!
Lydia
@SerendipityJane
What a wonderful story - and well-told too! It's frightening to think how fragile life is. I'm soooo glad your thread to this world is still strong. Carpe diem!
Oh Gerry! So happy you are OK!!
Goodness! I had no idea! All the Stars aligned to make sure you are still here with us. that means you still have things to do on this earth kiddo. Just ask Mighty Joe Young!
Hugs
Mary in Alabama
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