Unexpected

“Expect the unexpected. You’ll never be disappointed.”

Every day something happens to me that I don’t expect.

From the message on my Starbucks cup to the compliment I received today on the shirt I was wearing. My shirt says, “BE KIND.” And the woman behind me in line at the grocery store said that the whole world needs to wear them. I couldn’t agree more.

Strokes are unexpected. Unless you get a warning like I did about having AFIB and ignore it. Then, I should have expected it. That’s totally on me.

When you have a stroke, everything that happens is unexpected: losing the ability to speak, part of your body is suddenly immobile, and you have no idea what is coming next. It isn’t just unexpected; it’s terrifying.

You can’t plan for the unexpected. You can’t schedule appointments, vacations, or anything else around it. It just happens. But what you do next is what really counts.

It’s like a surprise party at your house that everyone was invited to except you.

You have to choose how you’re going to deal with it. And overcome the fear and uncertainty that I know I was swimming in after mine happened.

But sometimes, the unexpected can be wonderful, like a visit from a friend you haven’t seen in a while. Or a piece of mail that isn't a bill!

Or suddenly remembering something you couldn’t right after your stroke. 

Take in all the little victories and moments. Savor them. Celebrate every one of them.

Each one brings you a step closer to recovery.