Knowing The Drill

As a child I was taken to see the Isle of Lewis Chessmen in the British Museum. I was told that the Queen is sitting in this melancholic pose because she is contemplating the futility of battle, and the loss of life. In recent weeks, I have reconsidered- I believe she has a nasty pain* in her wisdom tooth! Today [somewhere between 9 and 10am] the consultant at the Leicester Royal Infirmary should be operating on my recalcitrant molar [under local anaesthetic]

I am grateful to everyone who has sent me pre-op good wishes. Not quite so happy about the horror stories others have felt compelled to share. Especially useful have been some of the tips passed on

• have supplies of yogurt and ice cream on hand, as eating will be difficult post-op, and these two are especially soothing and slip down easily [Thanks, Jurenko clan]
• don’t be afraid to put up your hand if you need a break from the drill – but it will all be over much quicker if you don’t
• beforehand, make a mental list of people to pray for – then concentrate on that rather than what is happening inside your mouth. That way you will be using the time most positively.

I particularly liked the last suggestion. My usual practice in the chair is to recite the 23rd Psalm in my head- but I do not want to repeat it over and over for half an hour! Praying for others, particularly those whose pain is infinitely greater than mine seems a very sensible idea [thanks Carole V]

*in the last few days it has hurt to eat, smile and kiss. I need this op!