I’ve often heard it said that our memories become trapped in the marrows of our bones, deeply embedded in the very fibres of our being. They linger there, waiting for the right moment to be triggered, rushing to the surface when least expected.

It was exactly a year ago that I somersaulted over my mountain bike on a single track cycling trail, crashing down onto my back and fracturing my vertebrae in the process. The memories of that traumatic day, back surgery and the subsequent weeks and months of my healing journey remain vividly alive, surfacing especially when I reach for a painkiller to dull the persistent ache along my spine.

A JOURNEY OF HEALING & RESILIENCE

Yet, taking the time to pause and reflect can be a powerful exercise in acknowledging our journeys—the pain, the grief, the trauma—and allowing ourselves the space to remember. With this act of remembering comes the opportunity to reframe our experiences.

In that reframing, I find God in the picture, reminding me that I was never alone in my struggles. He walked beside me, sharing in my agony, particularly during the excruciating 8-kilometre ride back to my car—every switchback and hill a testament to my resolve. I felt as if I was being carried and cradled in His arms, especially in moments when I truly believed my life had come to an end.

A YEAR LATER

And here I stand, a whole year later, more determined than ever. I’m committed to seizing each day, grasping every opportunity, and giving my best shot at living this crazy, wondrous life we’re given. We only have one life, and I plan to live it to the fullest!

So, here’s to embracing the journey, honouring our memories, and moving forward with resilience and hope. Each day is a gift, and I intend to unwrap it with gratitude and joy!