Superheros

A few years ago, two young patients came to visit me for osteopathic medical care.  These two children, ages 7 and 10 at the time, spent 15 minutes describing to me in intricate detail the “superhero abilities” that they would like to acquire. It was an amazing conversation.  I was so impressed with the level of detail - the physics behind their supersonic suits, the array of colors on their garments, the composition and purpose of their accessories, the ways they both felt they could save the world.

A true hero isn’t measured by the size of his strength, 

but by the size of his heart.

– Zeus

I so enjoyed listening, but eventually, they asked the dreaded question:  “Dr. Deb, what superhero ability do you want to have?” 

I say dreaded because when you are 7 and 10, these answers are clear and uncomplicated.  If someone asks you “What is your favorite color?” - without hesitation, you answer blue!  But as we get older and tend to evaluate our answers through a filter of emotions, expectations and judgments, it becomes more complicated.  Well, I like blue, but purple is also nice - and sometimes, I really like green.

I thought for a few moments, and tried to allow myself the freedom to imagine as I did when I was a young child.  After a minute or two, I somewhat hesitantly shared my answer with them.  

“If I could be a superhero and have a special ability,” I told them, “I would like to reflect to everyone I meet their inherent value and beauty.”  

Surprisingly, they shook their heads as if to let me know that this was an acceptable answer - but before I could relax for too long, they quickly shifted gears and asked  “So what will you wear?”

I didn’t have an answer at the time, so they gave me several creative suggestions, and I told them that I would have to get back to them on the costume.  

A few years later, when I was visiting the Ann Frank memorial in Boise with my friend Amy and sharing this story, she provided the answer:    “You would wear a mirror.”

This story is dedicated to Spirit “Superdog” Roman.  I am so grateful his beautiful heart and always unconditional love.  (2003-2020)

A true Superhero - Spirit flew through the foothills without wings - simply pure joy.

Physician and Patient: Together We Heal

In space between us

Transformation reflected

Together, we heal

Navigating the Currents

When I am moving through days or weeks with a very demanding schedule - a myriad of tasks to accomplish- frenetic energy often carries me from place to place - usually ineffectively - as I trip over my shoes on the floor or wash a full load of clothes on a small setting.

My body clearly reflects the continual forward momentum as I lean into the day, rarely allowing my shoulders to meet the back of a chair or even rest upright above my hips.

My thoughts consume most of my attention, as I negotiate ways to manage the expectations of a culture focused on achievement and image.

I embrace the illusion that I am navigating the currents without injury.

But as I ask myself to step back for a wider view, I more deeply experience the agitation that consumes the lion share of my energy. I notice the discomfort in my neck and the shallowness of my breath and become acutely aware of the depth of my fatigue.

My sterile checklist boasts a multitude of completed tasks, but lacks the messiness and unexpected that bring substance to my life. Even the unwelcome surprises, a lost suitcase, a struggling child, a serious illness - all vastly beyond my control, awaken me to the generosity of connection and engagement. 

I step back even further and allow myself to feel the loneliness of my rapid pace and telescopic focus. 

I gently bring my shoulders upright, welcome the support of the ground under my feet and quietly scan my inner and outer world.  My awareness of community - the relationships that connect and sustain us - expands. I untether myself from the expectations that pushed me into high gear.

My next steps are slower, more flexible, less urgent - with my shoulders upright, I can now lift my head and be with the world.