Saturday Confession: Like Ice Grips

I have the worst knees. Since sixth grade both knees dislocate with no notice. I’ve ripped ligaments and stretched everything possible. Although I haven’t seen anyone recently, the last doctor said before Lady Gaga ever did, that I was “born this way.” No surgery would help, I just had to exercise it daily to strengthen them.

With each year, my fear during the winter reached new heights. As a new mom I was terrified I’d fall and drop my baby. With child number two I was scared when she’d hold my hand that I’d fall and hurt her. When she became independent I worried she’d fall before I could get to her.  It reached a point that when I heard ice was in the forecast, I lost sleep trying to plan how I was going to navigate the day.

Last year the weather was terrible and I was so anxious that 80+ year old people in the church lot were passing me on heels while I wore my heavy boots. I stiffened out of fear and that made me all the slower. I decided I couldn’t do this another winter.

I finally found a pair of “ice grips” on Amazon that I felt confident I could figure out and use in the toughest condition. I’m not known for patience so if I couldn’t put them on with ease, they’d sit in a closet. Trust me, it’s happened.

At first I started slow. I got used to the feel and tested the conditions. With snowstorm after snowstorm and then melting and freezing turning to layers of ice, I walked for the first time at a decent speed in winter conditions. I even kept them on my boots full time, sounding like a tap dancer when I walked inside a store.

My husband wondered if my breakthrough was all in my head.  He’s probably right. All I know is those little cleats kept me upright on the ice and snow. My knees survived. I rated those miracles 5 stars on Amazon.

Funny thing is, I’ve thought about those ice grips more than ice cleats. They are to me a reminder of Christ in my life. He’s that sure foundation that gives me the confidence to face the storms of life. On my own, I’m an accident waiting to happen. Leaning on Jesus, having Him cover me as I go about my day—my walk is secure.

There are so many unknowns right now. Our daughter and her lab work.  A parent in need of extra medical attention. A son nearing the end of high school. A hint that more change is in the air. I don’t want to face any of this unprepared. Underprotected. Those ice grips are more than my winter lifeline. They are my reminder.

Do you have a visual that reminds you of your relationship with Christ?

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