Feeling in Extremes

This past week has been rough. The weekend before school started I was in a skiing accident that, without a doubt, injured my knee, but to what extent, I was unaware. Although I’ve tried to remain positive, uplifted, and unphased, there are times when I melt into sadness, anger, and unhappiness.

As poet, author, illustrator, and wise women Rupi Kaur once scribed, I am one who feels in extremes. When I’m sad I pour tears, when I’m happy I radiate, and when I’m determined nothing can get in my way.

On Friday I found out that I tore my meniscus. The meniscus is a ligament in the knee that plays a key role in joint and range of motion functionality. I poured tears to say the least.

Although this column may seem like a sob story, poor Jamie, pity, pity me, that is not my intention. My intention is to acknowledge my feelings, legitimize them as important to recovery, and learn from them.

I’ve seen so many people within the past couple weeks making their way around campus on crutches, in a wheelchair, in a brace, cast, sling, etc., and I can’t help but feel empathy. No matter the injury, the feelings associated will always have an adverse reaction on someone’s day-to-day routine.

I’ve learned how one handles crappy situations speaks to their character. I’ve fought and pushed back against tears, fear, and asking for help, however I’ve learned with age and many, many surgeries, that the ability to ask for help and to acknowledge weakness is actually a form of strength and honesty within yourself.

For all those who are suffering from injury, whether physical or mental, I encourage you to reach out and ask for help but also, to let your tears fall and to find things that make you just slightly happier.

I just received two new books of poetry in the mail on a day when I was feeling extra down and the delivery immediately lifted my spirits and calmed my fears. Get your hands on a new book, indulge in a new television series, or spend more time with those who bring out the best in you. I promise it will brighten your day.