Plot Twist: Apparently, I’m Still Here

Just when I thought the last blog post had wrapped things up neatly — Covid retreating, plans gently thawing, the universe having made its point — life cleared its throat and said, “Actually…”

Enter Shingles. Because why stop at one dramatic cameo when you can invite a whole cast of characters? What a plot twist! For those unfamiliar, shingles is what happens when your nervous system decides to re-run an old viral box set you never asked to see again. It arrived quietly, then loudly, then very insistently with pain that interrupted sleep.

I made acquaintance with a doctor newly arrived at the most local medical clinic and medication was prescribed pending the results of the skin swab. Everything seemed promising. A new doctor, being listened to, medication to soothe the inflammatory response. Except my immune system read the label and responded with an anaphylactic reaction, which is my body’s way of saying: absolutely not, thank you very much, please take this away immediately. So, there I was, dealing with shingles while also dealing with the aftermath of post Covid fatigue and a medication my body had firmly rejected — there’s a reminder that while I’m open-minded spiritually, biologically I am extremely discerning.

At this point, a friend gently observed that “this year isn’t starting well for you.” I prefer to think of it as life checking in to see if I’m still paying attention and the positive side is that I can always count the Lunar New Year as a new start.

Because here’s the thing: this month also marks 14 years since my cardiac event. Fourteen years since my heart quite literally made itself the centre of attention and forced a total recalibration of how I live, work, rest, and listen — especially to my body.  And it quietly rewired my understanding of resilience. Not the glossy, motivational-poster kind — but the slow, practical version that looks like resting when you’d rather push on, cancelling plans without apology, and learning (over and over) that healing doesn’t run on a timetable.

So yes, this past month has included Covid, shingles, allergic reactions, and the gentle reminder that I am not, in fact, indestructible. But it’s also included perspective. A deep one. I’m still here.

Fourteen years on, I know this much:

• The body keeps score, but it also keeps wisdom.
• Delays are sometimes protection in disguise.
• Resilience isn’t about bouncing back — it’s about staying curious while you’re lying flat.

Plans are still on hold. Some may be revised, some quietly released. Tarot cards are being consulted. The nervous system is being soothed like a skittish horse who’s seen a bit too much action lately. This seems like an apt introduction to the coming Year of the Fire Horse. And despite everything — or maybe because of it — I’m still here.
Still shedding skin – a fitting ending to the Year of the Snake.  Occasionally muttering at the universe… but very much in the game. Onward. Gently. With humour. And possibly fewer plot twists next time.