Ode to My Right Arm
Part I
Years ago, a motivational speaker advised that breaking habits should start with something easy
Such as
placing one’s watch
(this was back when people used watches instead of phones to tell time)
On one’s opposite wrist.
I lasted about two hours. It just didn’t make sense! My watch was on my right wrist
For a reason.
As a southpaw, my left arm had more important things to do.
And that is how I have lived my life ever since. Until a few months ago, that is.
Part II
Dear right arm:
I held you in contempt
Or maybe just neglect
Seeing that you were weaker
And less agile
Than your twin sister, the left.
When I needed strength
Or mobility
Or balance
I chose her over you,
Even moving the computer mouse to her side.
Writing, eating, cooking, driving, planting flowers, cleaning bathtubs, washing windows
Unlocking doors
I chose her over you.
Brushing my hair and my teeth
Putting in my contacts
Applying makeup, taking off makeup
I chose her over you.
As a counter to these finely tuned tasks,
You got to carry my book bag, computer bag, grocery bag, and lunch bag
All at the same time.
I ignored the signals of your distress
Until a simple yawn and stretch
Sent shooting agony
From shoulder to elbow
Radiating pain so bright
I couldn’t believe my skin stayed pale and cool to the touch.
As any child of neglect
Would righteously do
You spoke out firmly and vigorously.
So now we work together, cautiously.
You’ve got your mouse back.
You are becoming better at brushing my teeth and hair, and
I even let you drive when there’s not much traffic.
Still haven’t moved my watch, though.
The balance still tips toward the left out of habit, but the dialogue
Has begun—
A halting conversation with frequent pauses.
