Monday's "Thought for the day...."

COURAGE NEEDED Think of what it is/was like not knowing about WLS? Then coming to learn of it but having so much knowledge thrown at you its what I compare the storms that rage in my brain at times to. One person says this another says that. One doc performs RNY Lap another only Open still another does both and another does both plus Lap Band. Then some docs require a battery of pre-op testing while others require less. Think about what it is/was like to have WLS then face all the unknowns we spent so much time preparing for. The 'what if's' which will drive almost anyone crazy with worry, fear, emotion, etc.  Think about post-op feeling like a zombie, trying to get in all your protein, foods, exercise, vits etc. Going through the motions with trial and error. Today things taste spiffy tomorrow they are disgusting and so forth. You might develop issues and roadblocks along the way but you keep trying. In all these things (and so much more) Courage is needed in ways we wouldn't have expected and/or anticipated. We know much of nothing of how our future with our WLS journeys will go. So, we must recognize our need to rely on others (docs, nuts, friends, fam, counselors) for wisdom, advice, best practices etc. No matter WHAT our age or position, we ALL need wisdom and advice in our lives. Do you surround yourself with good 'counselors?" Do they provide you with wisdom to help you progress to greater things? Do you follow their advice and wisdom wisely or does pride get in the way? Do you give as much as you receive? Do you ask the questions that are burning in your mind? Are your questions being answered effectively? Seeking the answers to these questions is incredibly important in our journeys. The old saying ..."there are no stupid questions only ones not asked ..." is important to remember as well. Humility requires a lot of courage. We might think because we don't know all the other answers ('know it all') that others might think we are weak or unwise but the opposite is true. Folks will rally around us and provide their support, encouragement etc knowing that we have and each will be there again and we are in need of help. Wear your badge of Courage proudly! All best!

Great post. I have said this alot lately, but its true. I really don't think I would be having this surgery without this board and the support of the "veterans". It is comforting to hear that even though there may have been complications, you would still do it over a million times. Thanks all for answering my questions. You all truly are a blessing. Penny

Thanks Penny! Your kind words are very nice. I hope to be around for a long time to come and give back as much as others have given to me. Hugs.......

GREAT post!!!

Like everything else in life, you must have the courage to move forward.  Without this courage, yu will become complacent and never accomplish the things that you want to.

What a GREAT way to start the week!

Thanks Jill! You are right! Hope you're day is great! Hugs..........

This is so true - none of us know it all!  There are always new ideas, new techniques, new proteins, new foods, new symptoms etc but one thing remains the same - we all need support to be able to use existing tools and try new adventures. There is no "one fit all" solutions in WLS surgery.  Some if us have no issues and some have many - but though it all it is much easier to get through when you realise that others have been there before you and can help or even just sympathise.... We are a very unique community here - although friend can rally around to help us, the experience of people who has been through what you have helps even more.  It is not weak to ask for help - that is what we are all here for - to be helped and give help - pay it forward so to speak...... This is a great board!  - with great members - some new, some veterans - but always learning and sharing and helping each other.  I am proud to be a member here! Jackie

Thanks Jackie! I'm a proud member here as well. I really and truly appreciate your reply! Hugs.....