THE PUSH

When my sister came for Christmas, she went out for road work/jogging. I was curious. I asked what distance she covered.

"To the end of the street and back," she said.

Wow! Okay, I thought. This may just be the push I need. I mean, I've been trying to do that for over a year with no success.

When we lived in Barnawa, it was easier because you'd find people on the road working out from 5am.

But, at this new place... No matter how early I went out, I never saw anyone on the road jogging, or even walking.

So, I followed her the next day. It was interesting and challenging. But it was worth it. I had made the first move towards my return to the "fitness lifestyle."

I was especially encouraged when, on sighting us, one of two women we passed on our way said to the other, "Yaushe ni zan fara exercise?" which means; "When will I start my exercise?"

You see, prior to this time, I'd been consistent in my workouts. I'd made up my mind it was going to be my lifestyle forever.

But...

Along the way, my Dad falls sick to the point of needing assistance in everything. Everyone in the house, without discussing, built their lives around his routine. Going anywhere became difficult.

Always in a hurry to get back home. We didn't want him needing anything with no one around to help.

My mum was already doing a lot. She couldn't do it all alone.

It was a heart-wrenching period: watching the one who had been strong for you all your life suddenly depend on you for everything, even to a change in sleeping positions.

I let go of everything to be there for my Dad.

When he passed on, I had difficulty picking up the fitness routine. I would start for days, then stop. I kept trying till we moved.

Then changing houses and locations, not seeing anyone working out around... all of that demoralised me.

Gymming wasn't even an option for me. I wasn't ready for that. I just wanted walks and brief jogs😀.

I needed a push and thank God my sister did just that! She pushed me. I told myself following her would mean I'd automatically continue when she eventually goes back.

Well, the day she was leaving came. I went to wake her up. "Are you going out today?

"No"

Ye! Mogbe! How do i do this? Go out all alone? Phew!

I made a quick decision; To go alone, by myself, while she slept so that I'd be able to go the next day, and the day after, and on and on after she leaves.

I didn't know our street was that long ooo. Abi was it extended while we slept?

I mean, we would talk and talk so I didn't known it was some distance.

Companionship!

The companion I had even in silent moments shortened the distance.

At that moment, "Two is better than one" made sense to me.

I understood completely what companionship means.

I mean, If I'd slipped or fallen in those days, she would've lifted me up.

Her presence meant to support: moral support, emotional support, etc.

But she had to go back. And I have to go on alone.

I've been steadily going without her since then. I intend to continue, hoping to recruit neighbours as I go on.

Sometimes, all you need is a little push.

A gentle, loving push. Or even a hard one...

When you need to make that move, ensure you are surrounded by people who will push you in the right direction!

Once you start, keep going, no matter how slow!

Don't stop!

One step at a time...

One day at at a time...

Just move!