Jun 101 min read

Martha's Literary To-do List for Recuperation

Guess what item in this photo should NOT be present?

Ah yes, the crutch. I’ve been hobbling around for a week now because I slipped on a (too slippery) pool locker room floor. If I sound calm now, I swore like a real sailor directly after the fall and intermittently for many days thereafter.

Whatever coping strategies I recommend to others, however, I try to practice myself, whether in writing, fitness or personal challenges.

For your enjoyment, here’s Martha’s Literary To-Do List for Recuperation:

Swear a lot. It’s scientifically-proven to be healthy.
Ask if the situation is life or death. If the latter, call 9-1-1 and cry a lot (you deserve to). If the former, downgrade the situation to “a hassle.”
Read a book you would have felt guilty about reading before “the hassle,” but this time, don’t feel guilty.
Each day try to improve a tiny little bit.
Read a book about someone else having a tough time, because commiseration is almost as healthy as swearing.
Alternate swearing and reminding yourself about what you CAN do (swim, bike, write, laugh with family)
Read a book that makes you laugh.
Eat ice cream throughout the above steps.