tiger

there is something so simple and straightforward, yet so complicated about shoes. everything about them has to be just right. 

through an offer i couldn't refuse, i tried the shoes on. they felt very comfortable, with all the padding at the bottom and on the arch. the size felt right. i was satisfied with the color and sleek charm of the shoe. i knew it was my first pair of onitsuka's so i couldn't completely trust them, but i had hope for them. exciting...

the first time i walked 30 blocks in the shoes, they felt good. however, when i got home, i realized that the front of the shoes just didn't seem right (but i didn't want to admit it to myself). my big toes kind of hurt from being confined and suppressed. however, i believed i could stretch that part out with more wear, more love, more effort. 

as i continued to wear the shoes, i became deeply disappointed. i realized that it is an intrinsic part of the shoe that won't change. i either have to stop wearing them, wear them only in short periods, or just accept the pain (as i do with heels). but i don't think sneakers should ever be uncomfortable.... that is THE definition and purpose of sneakers! i shouldn't have to compromise and tell myself it is acceptable. there are other shoes that are much better for me and my big fat toe! 

lefty

today i had a revelation about my left hand. well, more specifically, my left thumb.

i have found great appreciation for it, through losing it. 

i happened to sprain my left thumb on saturday (during a punt reception) and i have become amazed at how unable i am to comfortably carry on with daily activities. 

i always thought since i am a right-handed person, that my right hand is so much more valuable and necessary; but this isn't so. it turns out that my right-hand, in conjunction with the use of my left hand, is made whole and useful. (if my right hand is holding the tooth brush, my left thumb needs to squeeze the toothpaste out.) (if my right hand is holding the knife, my left hand needs to hold the bread to spread the jelly.)

they say you don't really appreciate something until it's gone. well, i say, thanks for only being gone a short time (hopefully) so that when you return, i can truly appreciate you for your worth in my life, my left-thumb.