Navigating Life with Broken Ribs: Part 5

 

Navigating Life with Broken Ribs: Part 5 - Enduring Pain, Deep Roots in Community, and Virtual Coffee on the Porch

Good morning, everyone. Or perhaps I should say good early morning. The persistent throb in my left side has once again made finding comfortable sleep an elusive dream, so here I am, with a freshly brewed cup of coffee in hand, ready for a bit of virtual coffee time and some writing. If you're joining me with your own early morning brew, virtual cheers! As you might have gathered, my journey navigating life with fractured ribs continues, and this morning's discomfort is what has inspired this latest update.

This morning has arrived far too early, the persistent ache in my left side an insistent reminder of the fractured ribs. Finding a comfortable position in bed has become a nightly battle, with both my back and left side proving to be sources of significant pain. This constant discomfort is what has me up before dawn, seeking solace and a bit of distraction in writing.

While this rib injury is a new and unwelcome chapter, my connection to the Lovewell Center, run by Urban Hub Ministries, is anything but new. For the past ten years, this remarkable organization has been an integral part of my life, offering invaluable resources and a strong sense of community. Their model of empowering individuals to earn essential resources through participation in life-changing programs has been a consistent source of support and a testament to their commitment to fostering lasting change.

Even now, navigating the challenges of these broken ribs, the Lovewell Center continues to be a vital lifeline. Yesterday, I was able to get out and utilize the Smellwell laundromat and the Eatwell food store, maintaining a routine that has been a part of my life for a decade. Beyond these practical resources, the weekly Wednesday morning breakfast at 9 am has been a cherished tradition for just as long. It's more than just a meal; it's a time for connection, for sharing stories, and for feeling a sense of belonging within a supportive community that has been a constant in my life.

However, the reality of the injury persists. The pain this morning is a stark reminder that healing takes time and isn't always a straightforward process. Even the familiar comfort of the Lovewell Center doesn't fully alleviate the physical discomfort. So, here I sit, with a warm mug of coffee beside me – a virtual coffee time with anyone reading – finding a small measure of peace in putting these thoughts into words amidst the ongoing ache.

This journey with broken ribs is unfolding against the backdrop of a long-standing and deeply valued connection to the Lovewell Center community. It's a reminder that even in the face of new challenges, the roots of community and support can provide significant strength and resilience. And as I sip my coffee in the early morning quiet, I hold onto the hope of healing, knowing that I'm not navigating this alone, thanks in no small part to the enduring support of the Lovewell Center.

First, I want to apologize for the radio silence over the past week. Life, as it often does, threw an unexpected curveball, or perhaps more accurately, a painful fall. While I haven't been posting new content, I've been doing a bit of traveling back in time, revisiting some older blog posts and starting to draft new ones as I reflect on different stages of my life – from the early beginnings right up to my current, somewhat fractured, situation.

I truly appreciate your understanding, my readers. Sometimes life delivers a solid kick, and you find yourself on the ground. But as I always say, I'm not out yet. Thank you for sticking with me on this journey, through the highs and the lows, the unexpected detours and the virtual coffee times. More reflections, both old and new, are on their way.