Us blokes tend to gain our feeling of self-worth and esteem from a feeling of competence which is why we don't like the gals telling us to go ask for directions at the gas station when we're lost - it calls into question our feeling of competency. This thing is, we also have to work within our limitations, know when to call in the experts, or just say, I don't feel able to do that, you know?
I'm with you mate, I've worked hard all my life, lifted heavy shit, is how I describe it, and it's a difficult thing coming to terms with the changes life brings and the limitations that come with them, by we have to try right? It's just another challenge to face, another evolution to work through.
I don't have the answers I guess but maybe there isn't one. Maybe it's just a matter of doing what it is we're able to do and being a little kind on ourselves, understanding, like your wife is being with you.
I hear you about the competence. You may be right, it could be just giving myself a little grace and being more patient with myself. Yes, the wife is very patient, more so than she should be at times. The other thing is pacing myself. Doing everything in one go is no longer necessary, nor is it required. Like you said, not sure there is a single answer. Appreciate you drilling down on this with me though.
No worries mate, I know you'd do the same for me so I'm happy to put a few words down that may help.
A little grace man, that's it exactly. Even the fastest race car has to come into the pits for service now and then and if it doesn't it'll just break down and then it's not going anyway. You've worked hard all your life, I know that because you were a Marine, raised a family, managed a relationship and other things besides, cut yourself some slack.