Foreshocks

In early social media days I rarely posted, and then only to connect with others to fend off the hunger of loneliness. Now I post more frequently out of habit and to keep track of where I've been and where I want to go.

I'm not "lonely", but new crew members for future adventures are always welcome. It's a tough world out there; where God has spoiled me- the universe has been unforgiving.

Thursday the muscles in my neck and upper shoulder spasmed and rendered me unable to leave the apartment complex without putting other people's lives in danger. Driving in a Dallas rush hour isn't the smartest thing to do when you can't check your blind spots.

Thursdays we have band practice for Sunday Service; this Thursday we had practice for an evening Praise and Worship service. The timing of the spasm couldn't have been more perfect to hold me back.

The first thing that can to mind was, "Not today Satan!", before I groaned in pain attempting to massage the affected area with icy hot. "I can't quit, not now." I had wrestled with thoughts of contacting the team to tell them to go on without me.

After some meditative prayer, OTC meds, natural supplements, and a salt bath, I strapped a couple of pain patches and took back roads to practice. Even though I had regained some movement since the morning, I still had to play it safe.

- - -

Friday I wake up screaming and writhing from the contractions. I activate a few pressure points while digging into the bed with my neck, attempting to realign and alleviate the symptoms: it's mostly successful.

I am able to leave the complex unlike the morning before; of course I have pain patches this time, but I know that if I want to get better I have to keep moving by faith and not by sight. At work I drink a couple cups of coffee to warm me up, the thick faux leather jacket stays on to keep the muscles warm and loose.

- - -

I get to practice, but my neck muscles are tired. I haven't been able to properly support my neck, so those muscle groups are exhausted in an effort to compensate for the rebellious muscles.

Before entering the building I pop a pain pill, remind myself why I do what I do, give the glory to God, and keep moving. Even if it hurts.

Even though I wasn't able to play to my fullest potential, I know God moved when I could not. By this point I'm a little numb from the pain, but also very very warm.

During the break down of the equipment I decide to test my limits since it appears the chains of fatigue are broken. Still a little sore, but even prisoners need time to grow into freedom.

- - -

My neck is better now, Praise the Lord, I'm able to move around and perform routine tasks without fail. However this charade has left me wondering what the future holds.

My muscle spasms have been increasing in frequency and intensity. Perhaps it's time to get examined by a medical physician.