Sail through adversity

Submitted by Mark Lewis

I was lying face down in the water unable to lift my head. I had just dived in to the surf and without warning I struck my head against the ground beneath me. The sudden shock and horror expelled what air I had in my lungs moments prior. It wasn’t long before I gasped for air only to find water fill my lungs.

Misfortune knocks on everyone’s door. It’s inevitable. You can count on the sun rising in the east, setting in the west, and adversity to change your life. For some, misfortune only wears them down while others are luckier having learned something. How you confront your misfortune will determine your outcome.

Misfortune brings opportunity.

I was dragged to the beach by my friends and given medical attention. I awoke en route to the hospital, unable to feel anything other than my friend’s hands wrapped around my head. I had broken my neck. What had I done?

Misfortune knocked on my door that evening. I cried. I admit, I cried quite a bit. It was painful. When the pain settled and the tears dried up I realized I was still alive. I had cheated death.

It would be six months of hospitals and rehabilitation before my misfortune was over. I sit here today, seven years later, writing this post from my wheelchair with a body who defies its master. And yes, I’m happy.

It’s not uncommon for people to see my paralysis as my misfortune. I beg to differ. Breaking my neck, now that’s misfortune. Living with the ensuing paralysis is just life.

You cannot live through life with the naïve thought that the road you choose will be the road you travel to the very end. It will set you up for failure and your own misfortune will wear you down. Know that there are many roads that lead to the same point and that each road has its drawbacks and benefits.

I have met some truly amazing people as a result of having a disability. Their friendships have enriched my life. I have also been fortunate to have had some unbelievable experiences. During my first Paralympic Sailing Campaign, I spent three years sailing and traveling. I have grown much during this time and have learned more about myself than most people will in their lifetime. Lastly, I have made astounding progress to where I want to be.

What would life be like if I had not dived into the surf that evening? I don’t care. I’m too busy living.

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Submitted by Mark Lewis on October 23^rd, 2010