First it was an inflammation in my knee, and then a broken wrist. Since they were on the same side of my body my ability to navigate life took a hit. Eventually, I had to do something drastic. 

 

I did yoga. 

 

My daughter has been gently cajoling me to give attention to physical well being for years now, but I managed to shrug off her advice. Until I couldn't. 

 

I watched, and more importantly, participated with a You Tube class. The teacher's gentle voice invited me to stretch, but not too much. My limbs were decidedly more awkward than hers, and yet it still felt good. And hard. 

 

The benefits surprised me. Several times during the afternoon I felt less like the Tin Man before Dorothy came along, and more like a brass candlestick that has learned to dance. I actually looked forward to another session. This was unusual for me, to not need chocolate, or a friend waiting for me to shove myself into action. 

 

At the end of the half hour, the teacher invited me to breathe deeply, and realize that I was connected to the millions of other people who have entered into this practice. I glanced at the number of views, and yes it was in the millions. This felt comforting, to believe that humans need to work with their bodies, and can do it in solidarity. 

 

Many corners of life are like this. Surely this has been the spine of our marriage work, to know that showing up to practice listening, and appreciation, thrives with company.