The door that remains opened

When one door closes another opens. Many people have used this phrase in a philosophical way when reflecting on events which reshaped their lives. For me a small outcome reminds me of this quote.

So I together with many die-hards have tried our best to hang onto KK Women Hospital's bone building exercise classes designed for people suffering from or at the fringe of osteoporosis.  However due to the overwhelming demand and lack of hospital resources it not only was getting difficult to get a slot but the physiotherapist are encouraging people to join other exercise programs conducted in community clubs all over the city. Still participants out of preference for the familiar refuse to budge. The hospital then introduced an assessment every half year to gauge one's readiness to go for exercise classes outside. Each assessment is $44 after subsidy and each bone building exercise class is about $26. I had one such assessment this week and they gave me a 'graduation' certificate. So like all things impermanent, one door closes.

Forced to explore the lists of other programs in a print out which KK gave me, I visited WINGs at Bishan. I was ushered into a class that happened to be starting while I was there to made enquiries. Oh my was I impressed. The trainer was very detailed and made an effort to correct the posture of each participant. The class only costs $10 per session! This small experience makes me wonder why I was so reluctant to open another door when one is closing on me.

On the flip side I wonder why no one ever said "when no other doors open, this door does not close". After my retirement from finance, I pursued qualifications in counselling and worked a few years as a part time school counsellor. Now retired I aspire for volunteering opportunities that see me grow in a professional way. At one period of time I signed on with 3 organisations and was quite overwhelmed. I then contemplated dropping the one which offered least professional growth, a children's home. At this home I did not have to submit case notes, was left pretty much to do as I deem right and with no review required with the social workers whose turnover is high. I had thought of quitting this place but could not somehow got to do so because the bonding with the children there has been so strong. Fast forward, circumstances in the other 2 organisations have changed such that I have to quit one whilst my engagement with the last has dwindled substantially. In other words my aspiration to grow professionally has been minimal.

However the engagement which I now find much satisfaction is with the children's home, the door which I couldn't close. My sandplay therapy has gradually morphed into a mix of general play, mentoring, mothering and grand-mothering. I don't pride myself that the children fought over their turn but I take comfort in knowing that they feel worthy of being loved.

The door that does not close remains open in ways unknown.