Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Problem Solving

One evening I was sitting at Safeway w/a rehab specialist I had while at Mercy. She lives in EDH too, so we got together for a cup of coffee.

I needed to purchase something, as I did at the self-checkout counter, I ran into a couple of hinderances. The woman working at the site where I was, verbally walked me through what I needed to do.

As i went to sit down, my friend made some encouraging comments about what she saw that I did problem solving wise. I was incredibly encouraged by her observations. I don't think I would have put the same thoughts down.

When my friend was observing me, she was watching me through a rehab specialists eyes. She was seeing things that I may not normally catch.

Problem solving has been a slow come back during this recovery journey, but I am seeing it more and more. This morning, I was able to solve a problem at my apartment. I was very excited and was pleased that I also saw it for what it was: a problem solved.

Recovery is a slow process. It involves patience and perseverance. It involves getting excited about what others may take for granted. It involves pushing on. It involves celebrating the "little things" -- which aren't so little in a brain injured survivors world.

3 comments:

hoovstir - Laurie said...

Yes! Problem solving is a very tricky skill...very complex and takes much time to develop. I thank God for helping you regain your problem solving skills. May He give you encouragement and send you hugs as you grown and learn! Yahooooooo! Celebrate! Hugs to you Kathi!

Sally-Girl! said...

Now we need to problem solve where we are meeting on Tuesday evening!!! Can't wait!!

Karen M said...

Kathi, I haven't written for SOOOO long, I have been following your blog, especially the first year or so after your accident. Today I was thinking of you and hoping you were still writing... and there you were!!!
What is your email address? I'd like to keep in better touch...
With love,
Karen Martin