Finding Joy in Motion

A Writing Prompt Response

I was intrigued by Dennett’s article and prompt to write about how I find joy in motion, especially when it hurts to move. I know exactly what it feels like to hurt to move.

I had surgery to repair another torn meniscus in my right knee in September. This knee has had major surgery before. I tore the MCL and the ACL both in this knee, as well as the medial and lateral meniscus. This was a major accident that snapped my right knee completely sideways, and my right leg hurts all the time now. I struggle to walk on a daily basis.

Living in the RV full-time requires us to move south to warmer weather in the winter. Freezing temperatures cause my bones to hurt, and snow and ice are treacherous to my health. I slip and fall easily. That’s how I broke the other leg in three places. I no longer want anything to do with snow and ice.

Moving south has encouraged me to get moving and walk more so I can go out and see places. I haven’t gotten to where I can walk very far on uneven hiking trails yet. I still have to stay on the even paved paths. I may always have to do that, but just being able to travel and see places has convinced me to work hard so I can go farther each time.

Traveling around the country and seeing all the national parks and natural wonders gives me more joy than I can express in words.