The former pastor of our church used to say that if she heard something three times, from three different people, she knew she needed to pay attention. It might be a nudge from God.
I had that happen recently.
I heard the same question from three different sources in one week. What are you telling yourself that you can’t do?
So I pondered that question. What was I telling myself I couldn’t do?
I came up several things. One of them was driven home when I had my annual physical.
I was telling myself I couldn’t exercise.
It wasn’t like I was getting exercise on the job. I don’t even have to walk in from the parking lot, since my office is also my guest room.
But…
I had excuse after excuse for not making exercise part of my day. I’ve been suffering from plantar fasciitis for months. No amount of stretching or icing or foot exercises or praying has made the pain in my heels go away. My doctor told me I could get shots in my feet that would ease the problem.
Friends who had the same condition said the shots hurt like crazy and only help for a month or two.
That didn’t sound appealing.
But I couldn’t walk outside like I used to—half an hour, a few times a week. Granted, I wasn’t that excited about those walks, but at least I could do them. Swimming wasn’t a bad option, but I didn’t want to swim in the outdoor pool because, at the time, it was barely getting to up to 80 in the afternoons. The only indoor pool in town was closed for repairs.
I looked online for articles about exercise with plantar fasciitis. Every one of them mentioned biking.
Uh, no.
I mean, seriously, I hadn’t ridden a bike (except for one time about 1999) in forty years. Forty years! And even then, back in high school, it wasn’t like I rode a lot. We lived in the country, on a state highway. I wasn’t allowed to ride on the highway, so my friend Karen, who lived across the road, and I would ride through the woods on a dirt path, briars and poison ivy grabbing at our ankles, until we came to a gravel road. Then it was at least two miles, including going up a truly, truly horrible hill, to get to town. All this in the summer in Missouri when a cool day peaked at 92 degrees and 89 percent humidity. Did I mention that my bike didn’t have gears and Karen’s did? My legs hurt just thinking of it. Needless to say, once I learned how to drive, I never biked that dirt path again.
Then, about a month ago, the bloodwork from my physical came back. The numbers, while not horrible, were not what I wanted.
About that time I thought about the fact that the books that really stick with me, the ones I remember, are the ones where the hero or heroine manages to do the thing at the end that they could never do in the beginning. Whether it’s a romance or some other genre, I like upbeat endings, books about people who overcome their obstacles. I know from studying the writing craft that I’m not alone. In fact, one thing I do when I write each book is to make sure that the hero and heroine overcome their obstacles. The heroine learns to trust again. The hero is longer afraid to risk his heart. They stop believing they are incapable of change.
Exactly what I needed to do.
It was time to break through my obstacle. We even had a bike in our garage. A rusty, twenty-year-old bike that I think cost $77 brand new. The one my daughter rode at college because she wanted a bike that no one would steal.
One evening I walked that bike up the hill to the main (fairly flat) road in our subdivision. Very carefully of course, because of the lovely plantar fasciitis, which makes walking uphill less than fun. I fixed the seat so my feet would be completely on the ground if I took them off the pedals, just like you adjust a little kid’s bike when they first ride a two-wheeler without training wheels. Then I got on.
I was, quite honestly, terrified.
Very carefully, I rode to the corner and back.
That’s all it took. I was no longer sitting inside, feeling old and decrepit and stuck. Instead, I felt young and vigorous and free!
The next day I rode two miles, and the day after that four.
Me with my new bike, right after I brought it home.
Ten days after that first ride, I bought a new bike.
Lately, my husband and I have been riding almost every morning on the town bike path. I’m up to eight miles at a time and each time, I come back invigorated, ready to jump into writing–just as soon as I’ve had a shower.
It’s been a great three weeks. I have to tell you, it feels just as wonderful to overcome my obstacle as it does to read about a heroine overcoming hers in a romance novel.
But I have a feeling it wasn’t all me. I don’t know for sure, but it could be that God heard my prayers and decided that healing my plantar fasciitis would only get me back where I was a year ago–rather apathetically taking a half-hour walk every couple of days, and only if the weather was good. It could be that God took a different, better tactic.
He might be the reason I heard that question three times about the obstacles I was placing in my own path. And the reason I’m now eager to go out, every day I can, and ride as long as I can fit in my schedule. In time, I’m pretty sure the plantar fasciitis will go away. Both my doctor and those article said it would. By then, I bet my health is better than it’s been in years, all thanks to biking. And that nudge.
So, is it just me? Do you feel like you might be limiting yourself? Telling yourself you can’t do something that maybe you can? I’d love to hear about it in the comments. 
If God can help me do a new thing, I believe with all my heart that He can help you too.
Today, remembering an obstacle I overcame in 2015 when I published my first book, I’ve got that book, Christmas in Abundance, on sale for $0.99.
I hope you’ll pick up a copy. More importantly, I hope you’ll think about an obstacle you see in your life, brainstorm possible ways to overcome it, and ask God to help you turn that obstacle into a victory!
Sally Bayless writes contemporary Christian romance that features compelling characters, real-world problems, and uplifting endings filled with the power of love. She lives in the beautiful hills of Appalachian Ohio and has two grown children. When not working on her next book, she enjoys reading, watching BBC television with her husband, doing Bible studies, kayaking, and shopping for cute shoes. For updates on her writing and a free insider’s guide to her books, subscribe to her newsletter by clicking the newsletter icon below or visiting http://bit.ly/NewsfromSally.
Well done on biking. I recently got a new bike due to the fact I couldn’t get on the old one! I have issues with one knee (well both but ones worse) and I got what is called a low rider. I am still getting use to it as its a different set up. Unlike you I am not up to miles! I struggle with hills as I cant stand up to pedal yet. But I am using it more. I have an Achilles issue right now so like you walking at times really hurts. Biking is less painful.
I am hoping when the weather gets better (less gales and rain) I will get better and better at it.
Hi Sally- well done on the biking:) That is one of my favourite ways to get outdoors- on my mountain bike with the family! It’s also a great way to explore the city and to show friends around the city.
I am teaching a new subject this year- it is stretching me beyond what I thought I could do- and I am loving it! Not without stress and a lot of hard work, but so worth it!
Blessings:)
Oh, I feel your pain! I hope biking gets easier for you. I, too, struggle with hills. I’ve been driving my bike to the nice, flat, bike path down in the valley. I’m sure if we keep at it, we can improve!
Good for you for stretching and teaching a new subject! It really is amazing how many talents God gives us that sometimes we don’t trust enough to go for it! So yay!!
Thanks so much for stopping by and commenting!
I love how you connected your foot problem to being a “God thing” to get you biking! When my boss retired a few years ago, I had the opportunity to take on some new responsibilities which I didn’t think I would be able to do, however I tried and it’s turned out just fine.
I need to start exercising too. We walk but I need to do some calisthenic type exercise also. I keep putting it off to keep up with grandkids , sewing, canning, housework and church.
I bought a bike last year, but I find it hurts my where my sciatica is as I have back problems. I loved riding again but end up in pain afterwards.
Good for you, Ellie! And thank you for sharing. I find it so empowering to read about other people who try new things and succeed. Sometimes we just have to believe!
Good for you for walking, Diana. That’s definitely more than I was doing for a while there. And I bet keeping up with your grandkids is exercise too! :)
good job on the biking! I too feel your pain, I was a gym fanatic – every morning up at 3:30 and at the gym by 4, then home and ready to go to work by 8. Not that I was a muscle freak or thin, but felt good, you know? Then arthritis knocked me down, both knees, and bye bye gym, hello weight gain….I get those cortisone shots every few months, but they don’t last long, and I have not been exorcising since 2014 now……..sigh….
Oh, I’m so sorry that biking made your back hurt. Sciatica can be awful. I hope it’s not bothering you now. You were willing to try, though, and that’s great. I hope that the next time you try something new, it works out much better.
Paula Marie, I’m having trouble getting past the words “every morning up at 3:30.” Clearly, you are made of stronger stuff than me. :) I’m so sorry you’ve been struggling with arthritis, but I know from reading your blog that you started it a couple years ago–the very picture of someone trying and succeeding with something new. I think it’s not so much about where we stretch our abilities, but that we do. And you have! I do hope the arthritis improves, though.
Thank you! Now I’m challenged to get back to walking! It’s so hot that I stopped!! With the feel like temp in the triple digits, I admit I don’t want to get outside much!! Any walking is definitely better than none!
Bless you, Sally, you have made me cry happy tears…….I appreciate your words so much!
Good for you on bike riding! This was going to be my summer to get back on after a few years of major health stuff. And I have, a few times, but (isn’t that always the word? but????) it’s been so wet and cold and windy that I haven’t been very motivated. I do walk for 45 minutes nearly every day with a podcast or audiobook, which is helpful motivation when you’ve walked the same road literally many thousands of times.
You reminded me of the refrain on one of the podcasts I listen to: what if you could? Indeed. Instead of looking at the all the “I can’t…” how about, BUT what if I could?
I love riding my stationary bike. I bought one designed to be a work station so the seat is large and I don’t get saddle sore. :) I’m glad you are enjoying your bike too!
I feel your pain with the plantar fasciitis. I had it so bad I could hardly walk. I finally got into physical therapy where they did Astym on my legs and feet. It was super painful, but I can walk now PTL. I just need to remember to stretch daily to avoid having the same problem again.
:)
I’m so glad I encouraged you, Trudy! That heat and humidity are definitely obstacles. My husband and I skipped our rides the past few days when there has been a heat warning. Finally, though the temps have cooled. I still plan to get up at six to beat the heat. And yes, any exercise we get is better than none. I think I’ve even read that just ten minutes helps! Go for it!
Thanks, and right back at you! Good for you for walking 45 minutes a day, Valerie! That’s excellent! And combining it with a story sounds wonderful!
There are so many things that we tell ourselves we can’t do–at least I do. It’s often easier to see potential in others. But how uplifting to know God sees potential in all of us!
I’m so sorry you’ve suffered plantar fasciitis too, but glad you found relief. I had never heard of Astym. Just looked it up, and I will remember it if things don’t improve. Thank you!
I’ve seen a walking desk but never a bike that’s also a work station–how cool is that? We will both put in the miles!!
I feel your pain plantar fasciitis. I have that to and got insoles for my shoes so that I have better arch support. I need to remember my stretches and do them more. It is not as bad as it was so I can walk ok most of the time.
Good for you riding your bike. I used to love to ride but do not any more. Need to start walking more like I did before we moved to be closer to the grandkids. Not as many good places to walk or a walking partner as I had before. Need to find a way to do it sny way. Thanks for the encouagement.
Hi Lorel,
I’m sorry to read that you, too, suffer from plantar fasciitis, but I’m glad yours improved. I know what you mean about the stretches. I’m pretty good about doing them in the morning, but tend to “forget” at night.
I hope you find a new walking plan! You can do it!
Hi Sally,
So glad you have settled into a biking routine. If ever there is a day when your husband can’t bike with you, give me a call. (Preferably the night before and not at 6am ?)i’d Love to ride with you. I’m in the 2nd week of a 5 week boot camp challenge right now. So far, it is challenging, but I am keeping up with a few modifications. I think my major stumbling block right now is job related. I think I have come to the realization that I am not going to have my ‘dream job’ in the town where we live, so am trying to discern what my next steps should be…
FWIW, Christmas in Abundance is one of my favorites of your books. When it first came out, I was SO proud of you! You’re are a real author, and I LOVE your stories!
Great post, Sally. I have my own obstacles (exercise being one of them) that I need to overcome. I needed the push. ;)
Hi Sally, Well done on getting back into cycling. You’ve reminded me that I should be riding my stationary bike at home more often. Earlier this year I bought a Fit Bit, and at ten minutes to the hour it will remind me to do walk more steps, lol. :)
How awesome!! Good for you. I hope I find an exercise that makes me as happy!!
Great job!! So happy for you with this healthy change! Altho I’m not, and never have been, an athlete, I know “movement” is key to a healthy mind and body. So I walk. As I’m moving my arms and legs, my mind is flying about all sorts of things. Added bonus: very little chance of injury!
Oh, dear friend, thanks for stopping by! You have been such a support in my writing journey and my adventures in biking! Your kind words mean so much! Hugs–and we must talk soon!
Thanks, Ginger! Don’t hesitate to give me a push in return in a few months. I bet I’ll need it. :)
Thanks, Narelle! Fit Bits are awesome! Those chunks of 250 steps every hour really add up and are so good for us!
I hope so too, Susan!
Thanks, Laurie! And good for you for walking!
I do have a funny (minor) biking injury story to tell. I recently saw a doctor about some sinus issues and he noticed a big gash/bruise on my ankle. He asked about and I said, “Oh, it’s nothing. Just a biking injury.” I didn’t want to admit that I ran the one of the pedals into my ankle while walking my bike out of the garage, lol.
Hopefully I’ll stay safe from here on out!