I have been under the weather the past few days. (That’s a great expression, especially here in western Washington. I looked up the origin of the expression and found it has nautical origins. The most common explanation is that a sailor who is sick is sent below decks where he is protected from the weather. So I guess I’ve been actually under the weather, because I have spent most of the time in the house.) I couldn’t do the things I normally do without great effort. I had no energy. It is difficult to let go of good health. When I feel normal and full of energy, it’s impossible for me to relate to people who are not well. I think—or say—“why don’t they just get up and start exercising?” When I found myself in the same situation, I had no energy to get up and go, especially after I got stung by a wasp and had to take Benadryl, which keeps me groggy for

a foggy morning

days. So I guess it’s a good lesson for me. Walk a mile in another’s shoes. Maybe by letting go of health and vigor I will become more compassionate.