Learn One Small Thing Properly — Donna Hopkins

I am still suffering with pain in my left thigh due to an entrapped femoral nerve. As a former physical therapist, I have some understanding of the various places along its route where the nerve could be compressed. I am doing all of the appropriate exercises (stretches and nerve glides). I’ve used a heating pad, Biofreeze, Lidocaine patches, foam rolling, and a massage gun. The pain is much better; I can now walk around the block. But, it’s frustrating to live with pain every day, and I have deep sympathy for those that do. I try to reframe this situation in as many positive ways as possible, without invalidating my own experience. One thing that definitely helps to distract me from the pain is creative work. Fortunately, sitting is reasonably comfortable, so I have been able to work on my photo book, process photos, and even take pictures as long as I don’t have to stand for too long. The creative work reminds me of the good in my life; it grounds me and helps me to keep my perspective.

To avoid focusing on the pain, I’ve been learning all about pressing flowers. I purchased a beautiful handmade flower press from Hope Steinle, and I’ve been experimenting with different flowers. My first efforts are mixed, but I find the process to be deeply calming. The simple act of picking a few flowers at their prime, placing them carefully between two pieces of blotting paper, compressing the pages between pieces of heavy wood, secured with bolts and wingnuts, and then simply waiting, is meditative. The process is all analog and very intuitive. And the results are stunning—eliciting awe and wonder and memory. Every detail preserved.