In the quiet solitude of the restorer’s hangar, rain softly tapping against the metal roof, I take a moment to simply breathe. This rainy day prompts a pause, inviting me to reflect on where I stand in comparison to this time last year.
Sis was waiting for her ruddervators and stabilators to be reattached. We had yet to discover the cylinders needed work before flight was again possible.
Now, the restorer and one of his airplane sons are finishing the last of the inspection and engine reassembly on his homebuilt. They have been coming and going from Sis’s new home as parts are needed for their project.
Feeling a sense of safety and visibility is a new experience for me, yet amidst this tranquility, I find myself pushing to do more rather than breathe and appreciate. The fatigue that ebbs and flows challenges my desire for activity, leaving me questioning whether it’s the aftermath of the virus or a byproduct of the changes in my life that have provided solace and decompression.
Accepting my diminished energy levels feels like surrendering my ambitions, but I recognize it as a necessary step. There’s a yearning to explore and accomplish, especially now that the restorer and I are in each other’s lives.
Being content with where I am proves to be both comforting and challenging. I’ve come to understand that rest is not a hindrance but a vital component for recharging and navigating life’s challenges.
Rest is necessary for the mind to unwind, for the body to reset.
The restorer’s dedication to his projects, particularly Sis, the airplane that was once a focal point in my father’s life, is awe-inspiring. Since my father’s passing and my assumption of Sis’s caretaking responsibilities, I’ve navigated through moments of uncertainty and tears, finding the strength to redefine my surroundings and prioritize our needs.
Without the restorers understanding of Sis’s needs, my determination to return her to flying condition would not have been realized.
Every day presents its own set of challenges and triumphs, reminding me of the significance of being present and compassionate towards myself. As I reflect on the past and envision the future, I’m reminded of the resilience inherent within each of us.
Despite my tendencies to push beyond my limits, I’ve learned to appreciate the moments of rest and reflection, recognizing them as essential for self-care and acknowledging personal growth.
The journey of self-discovery is ongoing, marked by moments of focus and determination intertwined with moments of rest and reflection. Through it all, I’ve come to realize the importance of listening to my inner voice and honoring my needs.
Sitting here in the hangar with Sis, surrounded by memories of the past and the promise of the future, I’m filled with gratitude for the journey that has brought me to this moment. Each day offers an opportunity to appreciate the progress made, acknowledge the challenges overcome, and find solace in the beauty of the present.
As I continue on this journey, I’m reminded to take time to appreciate how far I’ve come, to celebrate the small victories, and to embrace the uncertainty of the path ahead. After all, each day is a new opportunity to find peace in reflection and gratitude for the journey traveled.
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