Ancora imparo "I am still learning," Michaelangeo's famous quotation certainly applies here. To wit:

I have tried in the past to use my treadmill (or go for a walk) regularly, but have always been able to think of a reason (or an excuse) to skip it, and then skip it some more, and pretty soon the whole project is gathering dust again.

At the solstice, I started once again to walk/exercise. I imagine those of you who are fitness buffs may want to scoff at my efforts, but I am determined to walk/exercise my way back to good health and not be subjected to surgery, if it is at all possible. Scoff if you like.

I've been walking three times a week. My housemate, B, asked me about it and I sheepishly said, yes, I was on the path to better health. I expected from her (she is in wonderful shape) a lecture or some kind of superior comment--instead, she encouraged and praised me.

I'm the person who will work my butt off for a kind word (criticism doesn't work with me), and I'm so grateful to her for her encouragement. She's the first person who has ever coached me--and now I understand why athletes have coaches. For guidance, support, advice, and a push when they need it.

I've coached others for many years as a teacher and a supervisor, and loved doing it, but I have not had the experience of being coached myself--I was on my own, progressing by making it up as I went along, keeping going by effort of will and a natural optimism. Now I learn that this is a beneficial, reciprocal relationship. [I had hoped for that kind of help from N, but he is congenitally too self-involved to be able to coach anybody else.]

I'm feeling better each day, with less chest pain and shortness of breath. Let the good health times roll! And rock.

Ancora imparo.