Anxiety

     Our younger daughter finally got her driver's license after four years of trying. Her anxiety in the past was such that she couldn’t get through a driving test without vomiting, certainly all the way there and sometimes even all the way home. It made taking a test very difficult. Today she was amazing, keeping a perspective on the day and preparing for it in every way that she could. And although it was nerve wracking, she found a way to get through the experience in a positive way. She was willing to see the day as a victory, whether she got her license or not, simply because she was able to keep her nausea at bay. Her diligence paid off and she is now a new driver; independent, responsible and hopefully still managing her anxiety.

     I walked my stress away by prayerfully walking laps around the ICBC licensing building, much to the amusement of some of the people standing in line. These folks were trying to keep cool by staying in the shade and moving around as little as possible while I was doing something completely opposite: tromping around on the sidewalk and in the sun-drenched dust, around and around and around. I got about six thousand steps in the process and found it a rewarding way to spend the half hour or so of waiting. 

     Anyway the afternoon was a triumph for our daughter; her anxiety was managed and the end result was a long overdue ticket to independence. As we made our way home, making plans for a celebratory meal, I couldn't help but notice once again, what a difference a day makes....Thanks Ashu!