I open my eyes and see fluorescent light beaming down from a sterile white ceiling. I try to lift my head to look at my surroundings, but I can’t move. Everything is numb—my senses, mind, everything. I can’t move. I’m trapped in a prison of numbness. At least, that’s how I saw myself in my mind.
In reality I was a normal person surviving the monotony of life until the accident happened. My mind had twisted the event so much I didn’t even know what was true. All I know now was a numbness inside that dulled every aspect of my senses. I could not escape it or retreat into it. Everything seemed less than satisfactory; color was dimmer, texture was lost to me, food tasted stale and drink was no more than a watery mixture. It became my world.
I still see myself staring at the light shining from the ceiling, but it seems brighter and I hear faint music. I am able to lift my head to see my room. There is a window beside my bed, but I can’t see through it. There are dark splotches on the walls, but I can’t decipher what they are supposed to be. My blanket feels warm. At least, that’s how I saw myself in my mind.
In reality I was noticing strange things. The red fire trucks I saw every time I went to school seemed a brighter fire-engine-red. The leaves seemed greener and flowers had more color. Birds’ singing seemed less harsh and grating, and became near pleasant. The sun’s rays warmed me now.
I stare at the ceiling from my light once more. The light is even brighter. I can look out my window unhindered and determine clear-cut figures of trees and shrubbery. The vague splotches on the wall are beautiful paintings with vivid color. Soothing music plays louder, but pleasantly. A cool breeze drifts through the room and gently caresses my arms and face. I smell something delicious wafting through the air. At least, that’s how I saw myself in my mind.
In reality I could no longer deny something had changed. Color returned in its entirety. Birds sang melodiously, tempting me to join them in song. Beautiful blooms extend their fragrances to me as they ride the wind. I now felt the fur of my cat and the bark of trees. Everything was improving.
I wake a final time in my bed. The light is so bright I have to look away. As I do I see I am in an oak bed. Lovely art covers the walls, and drapes hang by the window. The most gorgeous sight I’ve ever seen is outside my window. I hear the chorus of everything in nature and smell a wonderful feast. I am in a palace. At least, that’s how I saw myself in my mind.
In reality I was free of my former numbness. Colors were not only restored, but were more vivid and vibrant than ever before. I could distinguish every crevice, nook, and cranny in even a rock. My soul sang in joy and ecstasy in perfect harmony with all of creation. I walked to my feast and at once cried out, “Thank you, my salvation.” I was more than healed, I was saved.