A guest post from Pilates client Jeff Riebe.

“…Always look on the bright side of life.”

Innately, I have always clung to the bright side of… oh, everything, before, during, and after my “personal intermission” (that is, experiencing coma).

Since opening my eyes—really opening my eyes—I have yearned to participate again in the fascinating happenings surrounding me. Pilates has awoken my joints, easing the body’s ability to communicate with the brain. I have been provided the opportunity to really know myself on a whole new level, and I’m relearning to like me. Focus is on the bright side.

During this second act of my life, every day has become not merely just another day, “It’s a whole new world!” Several years ago, as I was rolled in my bed into the Courage Kenney Rehabilitation Institute (nee Courage Center), the word “courage” on the wall resonated. It reminded me that though I was in no position to claim having any, I really did and I mined it whole-heartedly.  Courage is the reason I have been able to come so far on so little. It helped illuminate the bright side.

In an attempt to widen my rehabilitation possibilities, I got my got myself to Six Degrees in Uptown. Individually attending to this lengthly process, Pilates has provoked me to pay attention to my physical self in a whole new light. I wish I had been introduced to its benefits earlier!

Initially re-entering from this multi-faceted diaspora, I recall making the choice to smile. There is just too much good out there to continue sitting on the sidelines, so, “Put me in coach! I’m ready to play.” I believe that one decision is why and how I have been able to grasp life’s subtleties. The night is darkest just before the dawn; enter BRIGHT, stage left.