I talked with a kind man this morning who has been coming to Fall Avoidance all year.  Two years ago he suffered a stroke.  It has been a long journey to regain some balance.  His reaction time?  Great.  His physical feeling of well-being?  Never a problem.

But he can barely read.

I always set out an obstacle course for them to work through on their own time after we do some group work in a circle together.  For each obstacle I put down a sign so they can read it and follow the directions on how to work on that aspect of their balance, coordination or proprioception (big word). 

This kind man will stand there and read it for a very long time.  I try not to just run up and show him what to do visually.  He likes to figure it out on his own time.  Today we were talking about the reading thing and he goes, “I have to read and re-read one word at a time.  Sometimes one letter at a time.” 

He wasn’t complaining; I brought it up.  He takes his time working slowly through every part of the full-gym course.  He is very deliberate.  I like it.  I find myself slowing my movements down when I’m around him; I’d hate for him to feel rushed or stupid.  I want him to feel welcomed and celebrated for all his hard work.

I only had a few for my second class this morning and 2 of the ladies left early.  So he stayed to help me pick up some things after we chatted.  When things were put up, he thanked me for the class. 

I said, “You’re welcome.  Have a good weekend!”

He quipped, “I guess it is Friday; when you’re retired life is 6 Saturdays then you go to church!”

I smiled, grateful he has a sense of humor and loves God.  I know God loves him.