“You have to hurt in order to know. Fall in order to grow. Lose in order to gain. Because most of life’s lessons are learned in pain.”
Boom – crackle – pop, pop, pop.
Fourth of July celebrations ended a few hours ago, but the sounds of remaining, lonely firecrackers still pop pop.
The 4th of July used to be one of my favorite holidays. For 2 years, I spent it at home with my parents, watching the fireworks on television. The 3rd year, my father felt my need of wanting to see some bright lights. He packed my wheelchair into the back of the SUV, picking me up into the car with strong determination. My father really wanted me to see fireworks. So, he drove, sat in traffic and kept me positive considering we were definitely going to be too late. I did know that, but the fact my father kept that fire of hope going meant so much to me. When we arrived, it would be nearly impossible for us to find handicapped parking, get me in the chair and find a good spot. He was heart-broken. Me? It wasn’t about the fireworks. It never was. My father is my determination. He is a man who has taught me how to keep a fire alive.
This year, I am a 10-minute walk from the Philadelphia Art Museum, so my mother and I decided to take advantage of this and go see fireworks together. We walked with our chairs, held hands and found front row seats. As the first few fireworks were released, booming over our heads, clouding us in a smell of sulfur, I looked over at my mother and she looked happier than she has in a long time. I had one of the best nights of my life with my mother on the museum lawn. Again, it wasn’t about the fireworks. It was about my mother’s ability to appreciate the smallest of things, enjoy life as it happens and have fun. That’s what she has taught me.
We can learn a lot from each other. I’m grateful for every person who has been in my life, for they have taught me something.
Life is all learning and if you don’t pay close attention, you will miss the lesson.
