Precious Eyes: Being Blind 4 a Day

Well..the title speaks it out. Starting 3:30 pm local time of Thursday, September 22, 05 till the next full 24 hours, I could not see, literally. I haven't suddenly lost my eyesight or anything, (thank God), but my eyes had to be covered after a minor surgery. In the few first hours I was either sleeping or exhausted, so it wasn't a big deal. The point where I couldn't make use of my eyes started hitting me later on when I checked out of the hospital & went home. I wasn't frustrated really, took the matter as a challenge of senses & an exploration of a new encounter, being in a blind person's shoes. It's different from just imitating a blind individual by closing your eye lids, 'cause you can't subconsciously open them when you sense danger! I had my two younger brothers acting as taxi drivers shifting me from my room to the living room, my parents' room, downstairs & back. It's not that I couldn't identify where I was standing & in which direction I was heading, but it was easier having the help provided & it felt great knowing that you had two sweet caring bros who volunteered to lend a hand even when you did not ask for it.

I have come to recognize the importance of memory, distinguishing of space & object locations to a sightless person throughout my walking journeys around the house. I depended greatly on my detailed remembrance of where this & that were so I could get along without any hits or bumps. One of the funny things I came to do, was "hearing" a couple of shows on TV! :) Yup.. I listened to the Top Ten Movie countdown & the Gilmore Girls, which my mom was watching. I actually challenged myself by turning the channels to the ones I wanted & trying to tell which show / program was showing. I can't say it was a blast, but I gotta admit that I was attempting to amuse myself.

I faced many disadvantages within this single day. There was no internet, reading a newspaper, grabbing your favorite magazine or a great book, observing things, reflecting on the loads of colors surrounding you, watching your own food, (not to mention eating it), seeing your loved ones faces, & so many other things I may or may not have gone through, during this single day.

It was a chance to thank God on just ONE of His countless & valuable gifts. So.. Al Hamdo Li Allah.

Oh.. & one more thing.. Having a two week sick leave is a GREAT plus!!