“Comparison is the thief of joy”
Most of the time, I have found this to be true. It’s the primary reason I don’t use social media, follow influencers or keep up with trends. If I don’t see it, I don’t lust after it.
But occasionally, comparison can provide a much needed reality check like the one I got this week.
I was standing around waiting for my appointment at the orthopedic clinic. While waiting, I observed other people enter, register at the kiosks, sit and wait like I was doing.
Except these people were seriously broken. Some were elderly, in wheelchairs with oxygen tanks and assistants. Others were younger, but obvious in pain walking, sitting or maneuvering. There were casts, splints, knee scooters and other devices.
In comparison, I was like an Olympic Athlete. I’m nursing a back strain at the moment and dealing with my maddening shoulder issue. But I’m thinking about how soon can I start working out like a madman once again. I’m not thinking about how to get out of my chair, go to the bathroom or navigate stairs. I’ll be driving myself home and walking the dogs later. Some of my fellow patients would be leaving with an assistance to take them back to the nursing home or a family member helping them walk to the car.
I felt bad for these people who were suffering. It just sucks. Pain and debilitation are awful.
By the time I finished my appointment and left the office I felt grateful. Grateful for my diagnosis and prognosis, and gratitude for my health and mostly injury free condition.
I probably would never feel that way after spending time on Instagram.