Making Adventure Possible

Adventure has always been a struggle for me and what I define as an adventure may seem quite normal to you. I’ve always been afraid to get into situations that I’m not sure that I can get myself back out of. This is something I’m trying to overcome. My partner helps with this when he can. However, this was one of those times where he couldn’t.

I had tickets to a concert that I’d managed to completely forget about. Fortunately, my brother and brother and law were also attending and reminded me. At the time I thought that they were bragging because it’s one of our shared favourite bands. Not my brightest moment, I’ll admit. So, we were going to meet them there. That was the plan.

Unfortunately, my partner got a nasty head cold at the start of the week and wouldn’t be able to come with me. He’d been getting lightheaded, so safer for him to stay home, we agreed but it left me with a choice. I could plan the situation the best I could and try my best to get there or I could cancel and feel sorry for myself. Truth be told, I’d probably have cancelled for a band of lesser calibre, but I didn’t want to make my partner feel guilty. Most importantly though, I had something to prove to myself in that moment. I needed to remind myself that I’m capable of these things and this was a good opportunity to prove that to myself. I’d done this trip before with him, so I knew what was involved. It would make me anxious, yes but I hoped it would be achievable.

  Usually when I travel on a train, I don’t like to book assistance and I won’t unless it’s important. I deserve to be able to be spontaneous, just like everyone else, right? This time, however, I was going to a station that doesn’t always have staff to help me on and off the train. So, I booked assistance and got there with plenty of time. The staff at the local station know me know, so there’s usually no issues. Things went smoothly, though the staff member felt the need to reassure me that even though I was coming back later that was okay. I raised my eyebrow at that but dismissed it. Knowing that I don’t need his permission because I’m more than able to make plans. I sighed though and turned my thoughts to the next bit of the journey. Crossing my fingers that there would be someone waiting for me at the stop I was going to. Sent a quick text to my partner and my brother that I was on my way. I wouldn’t relax until I was at the venue but that’s okay. I silently praised myself for getting this far. Telling myself that I was doing well.

For too many years I was my own worst enemy, so these days I work at being a friend to myself instead and as trite as that sounds it does help my anxiety. I look out the window until I reach my intended stop. Breathing a sigh of relief when I saw the orange jacket of a staff member. Success! I got off the train. That was step two of the plan, step three was to navigate the long, covered walkway to the venue. More reassurance from myself and I reached the venue and found my family. Mission accomplished so far.

 I enjoyed a memorable night with my family and added another good experience to the tally. The only thing that was a little unfortunate, was that I had to leave early to make sure that I caught the train I had booked but again, that went without a problem. My partner and my dog were waiting for me at the local station. I remember looking at them waiting for me and thinking. Tonight, I get to feel like a winner and a wave of gratitude washed over me.

The point of the story is this, a little bit of planning on everyone’s part and the right attitude and every adventure is possible. It might not seem that special to be able to do what you want but for those with mobility issues, it’s the difference between simply existing and living. So be kind and be helpful, then we can all flourish. Simple really, right?