Trying To Remove My Crutch
I’ve been relying on a cane day and night for over six months. Whether inside or outside my home it’s always with me. I don’t even walk to the kitchen or bathroom without it. I know it drives my wife crazy. But, I’ve actually become very dependent upon it.
It’s helped keep me from falling several times. My weak legs lean on it to preserve strength. However, in the process my legs have actually become weaker than before. I’m so used to leaning on my crutch that I’ve lost lower body strength. I’ve even lost some confidence that I can walk safely without it.
I’m now taking baby steps towards removing my crutch. One, I’m swimming laps in the YMCA pool a few times per week. Two, I’m trying to take short intentional walks without my cane. Three, I’m doing stretches and exercises daily to build my lower body strength. It’s certainly a process of taking the next faith step. My legs tremble and my heart beats heavy with each step.
However, sometimes you just know that relying on a crutch is no longer a good thing. In fact, relying on a crutch too long can make you weaker. It can keep you from reaching your highest potential. It can hinder you from working through your pain. Sometimes the crutch needs to go so that you can keep growing in strength forward. Often we must consider what could be holding us back in our faith walk. We can’t let our crutch take the place of taking up our cross.
“But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)
Pastor Craig Crosby 
Wow! You got my attention, dear friend in Him! Having used a cane for different periods of time during the past EIGHTEEN years – that’s right – I realize the truth of what you’re saying. First one was after major heart bypass, and the next two times were knee replacements, plus a partially successful spine surgery. So I’m still having to use one a good bit – more than I want! A gospel song is entitled, “I Can’t Even Walk Without You Holding My Hand”, and I remember a dear fellow who requested it nearly every night when I was doing Christian radio broadcasting. Just be sure when you may need a cane or not! P.S. A side benefit is that folks let you in line ahead of them a lot. Sure won’t need it in Heaven! All will be well, yes, perfect!
LikeLike