Dear Ziad:

In your poem that I like so much you wrote to not use you, to not label you and to not accuse you of being unable. And I promised you those things. I will keep that promise.

Being unable, that is a scary concept for you, having been unable as a child, a victim. And it is empowering to be able, to run, exercise, keep going in spite of pain. And you are able to talk to the Imam about hurting a child and reply with such grace to the smiling woman on Facebook. You are able to control your body and to make a difference in the world: I understand the thrill, the excitement in this Ziad-is-Able state of mind, body, and affairs.

Is Ziad able, though, to slow down?

Running is a dangerous activity because injuries are common (as opposed to fast walking), keep that in mind. Find a balance between activity and rest.

In your quest to be Able- test your ability to rest, to pace yourself, to exercise some balance, moderation… as hard as it seems…will you try it?

anita