Elevators, Ladders, and Overcoming Fears

It started out to be a normal visit with our friends at Eagle Crest North. We spent time with our favorite residents in memory care. I enjoyed roaming from one person to another soaking up attention, ear scratches, and pats on the back. It started off as a routine visit which is always joyful. Little did I know that Donna changed our routine by having us meet with a group of residents in the lobby of the third floor located right next to the elevators.

 

I am not fond of elevators. My mom knows that I avoid them at all costs, so we always take the stairways. For me, the elevator is an ominous metal box that stirs feelings of unease. The confined space and unpredictable movements with beeping sounds coming out of nowhere and doors that randomly open trigger anxiety in this gentle golden therapy dog. In a world where elevators symbolize progress and convenience, for me it is paralyzing. It just so happened that on this day, we were scheduled to meet our second group of people on third floor right next to the elevators. 

Along with the elevator monster present in the room, another challenge presented itself when maintenance men arrived, banging and climbing up ladders and pounding on the ceiling creating a cacophony of unfamiliar sounds. My instinct to be wary of the unknown kicked in, making me retreat into the safety of a corner (see photo). This experience mirrors the quest to conquer fears in human experiences. With the support of my mom and the comfort of those that I was there to comfort, I took small, courageous steps learning to associate the elevator with positive experiences. The maintenance men came down from their ladders to scratch my ears and pet my back transforming this source of fear into a gateway of possibilities.

Like me that day, all people encounter elevators-metaphorical or real-that challenge us. The maintenance men on ladders pounding on the ceiling represent the unexpected disruptions that life throws our way. It is the human connection, the support of friends and loved ones, that often serves as our anchor during these moments of fear. Triumph over our fears stands as a testament to the resilience within us all. When we confront our fears head-on with the transformative power of human (and dog) connection, we can emerge stronger on the other side. Overcoming fear is not just a journey, it's a celebration of the indomitable spirit within us.