HERE'S TO GOOD HEALTH!

Back problems.
I knew this would happen eventually. Seems like most bartenders experience some sort of back problems, leg issues, muscle aches, or some sort of debilitating injuries that keep us off the job for days on end. In my case, months on end.
Ever since Rock Creek closed, I haven't been able to find a worthy place of employment. Then to top it off, I now have a herniated disc that's pressing on the sciatic nerve. Painful is an understatement!
I've been through three steroid injections (to relieve the inflammation), and two sets of physical therapy, one of which included lumbar traction. Nothing really worked to a great extent.
The first neurosurgeon I saw said surgery would be a last resort.
I have an appointment later this week with another surgeon for a second opinion.
Really hate to go through surgery. But I guess it would be better than suffering through all this pain I have.
Nerve pain is a deep burning sensation. Feels like the inside of my leg is on fire.
I also have to walk with a cane now. Too painful without one.
Seems like the only pain-free position I have is when I'm on the recliner with my legs elevated. It also helps to have the remote in one hand, and a cocktail in the other.
But I can only watch so many re-runs of Gunsmoke.
Now that I think of it, I'm glad I worked nights for all these years. After watching what's on the tube these days, I realize I haven't missed a thing.
Reality shows? I'd rather watch lab mice try to decipher the recombinant DNA theory.
On the bright side, I've got a lot of reading done. I absolutely love to read! I think I'd rather read than do anything else. Can't get enough of old, classic literature. Almost through with the complete works of Franz Kafka. Finished the Raj Quartet by Paul Scott. Now I have to watch the film again. (One of the greatest productions ever televised on PBS.) The new translation of War and Peace is coming up, along with the Autobiography of Mark Twain.
Being a devout Catholic, (and a Secular Franciscan) I've had a lot of time for spiritual reflection.
Along with many Rosaries prayed.
I'm also probably one of the few people that have read the entire Bible, cover to cover. That project took about four years of daily reading. Now that was one interesting read! Adventure, mystery, thriller, biography, poetry, history, crime, etc. The Bible has it all.
On a good note, I now have some time to finish my short story about a bartender.
Next time I hoist a few, it'll be a toast to Good Health!