Not too long ago, I attended a conference at a huge Hilton property in Chicago. At this time, I was using my cane a good chunk of each week. The first two days of the conference, I tried to get by without it. Then I said to myself, “Hey Don, who are you trying to impress?” I decided to put my cane into action.
I roamed the large exhibit area, chatting with old friends and new acquaintances. At the end of the day, I journeyed back toward the elevators and my room.
Wait! Where is my cane? Where did I leave it?
I headed back, retracing my footsteps as best I could recall. I must have walked cane-less for over two hours and covered a couple miles. My bad leg was throbbing. Finally, I flopped in a soft chair and just started laughing – or maybe crying – over my absurd situation.
My self-talk told me there must be a broader lesson to be learned.
No. I’m blaming the Hilton. They should build smaller, less expansive properties.
Oh, and please return my cane.