For most of my life, I couldn't have cared less about these two facts. But when I recently developed tendonitis in my right thumb, a condition that makes using my thumb extremely painful, I realized how essential thumbs are to so many tasks and how many things are designed for the "right-hander" in mind. Without my right thumb, tasks as simple as starting a car, cutting out an article from the paper, or using a manual can-opener are impossible or -- at best -- painfully challenging. I have trouble parting my hair, brushing my teeth, clipping my nails, setting my watch, tying my shoes, zipping up my coat, and locking my front door every day. Activities such as drawing, writing in longhand, or playing the piano are completely out of the question.
But, curiously enough, I can still type just fine.
RANDOM MUSINGS |
THE TRANSPORTER ROOM |