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Miss Being Able

1It's difficult to relinquish control. Control over my environment. Control over my socialization. Control over my food. Control over body and it's functions.

I miss being able. Able to pluck a dead blossom. Able to pick up a dvd and pop it into the player. Able to crack open a brand new hardback Bestseller. Able to sort, fold, and stack my own clothing. Able to water my container garden. Able to wipe the dust, grit, and crud off my wheelchair. Able to make my bed like I like it. Able to treat stains when I dribble my lunch. Able to select a chocolate and lift it my mouth.

I miss being able to mingle among my peers. Able to select classes and go to college. Able to hold a baby and watch children. Able to go to Starbucks and choose between chai tea latte or carmel machiatto. Able to go to the park, lake, ocean, mountains, library, Trader Joes, Safeway, EMP, museums, mall, hospital, etc whenever I want. ...

I miss being able to prepare healthy and delicious meals. Able to buy Dave's Killer bread, Famous Daves pickles, Best Foods mayonnaise, avocados, chocolate croissants, Magnum ice cream bars, sorbet, Laughing Cow cheese, Tillamook Extra Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Ben & Jerry's Chunky Monkey, Pom, Thomas Kemper's root beer, green olives, Lucky Charms, pistachios, Frosted Mini Wheats, Sugar Corn Pops, (Yeah, I developed a habit, as of late.)

I miss being able to go to the bathroom. Able to scratch my head or nose when they itch. Able to blow my nose or wipe my eyes. Able to lift my hands back up on the pillow after a yawn. Able to sit up under my own power. Able to walk, run, dance, or exercise. Able to talk or sing. Able to purse my lips for a kiss. Able to hug and hold loved ones. Able to pet a dog or cat. Able to brush my hair or apply my own make-up.

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