On Being Temporarily Crippled

It has been seven weeks.  Seven weeks ago I was walking to fellowship with my roommate.  We were talking and I didn't see the loose brick in the sidewalk.  Next thing I knew, I was on the ground with what I knew was a sprained ankle.  Despite my inherent clumsiness, I have never really sprained my ankle.  So, not knowing what was ahead of me, I decided to suck it up because I was sure I would be better in a week...two tops.
One week went by.  Ouch, but I can do this.  Two weeks went by.  I tried so hard not to let the pain rule my life.  Three weeks went by.  I dragged my brother all over Qingdao and was exhausted at the end.  Four weeks went by.  I started to get discouraged.  Five weeks went by.  I was discouraged and worried and lonely.  Six weeks went by.  I finally went to see the doctor.  He told me to keep resting.  I finally started asking people for help.  Here we are at seven weeks.  I can sometimes walk without crutches but only for short distances.  I'm starting to leave my house again.  And I feel much better emotionally...because I asked for help.
I have no idea why, but I have always had a hard time asking for help.  I try to take care of everything on my own...When I finally humbled myself enough to ask for help, I found people ready and willing to help me.  I wish I had asked for help the first few days.  This would have been so much easier. 
So, to answer the question that all my closest friends love to ask.  What has Dad been teaching me through this?  He has been teaching me humility, patience, endurance, strength, peace, contentment, friendship, and so much more.  So, can I say that if I had to do this all over again would I?  Ummm...no.  But I'm glad Dad was working in it all the same.  And I'm going to keep asking Him to strengthen my leg so I really truly can have my life back again.  I miss being able to walk a couple miles with no problems.  And dear, dear friends...THANK YOU!  Thank you so much for all you have done to care for me during the last seven weeks.  I would not have been able to do it without you.
PS - Try not to use crutches in China.  You have to walk too much, there are tons of stairs, and no one caters to you.  And I had three people dash in front of me yesterday when I was out and almost take both of us down.  Ick.