Scratching an Itch

"Like an itch I can't scratch" hasn't crossed my mind in... like... years. I have heard it and read it, but I don't remember where. It reminds me of wise words a grandparent would share - one of those sayings that has a superficial meaning as well as a more philosophical one.

My body is recovering from shingles. There are fading splotches my fingers can't feel though my brain broadcasts an itchy sensation that I hope means healing is progressing. Topical treatments don't affect this kind of itch, nor does scratching or rubbing. It can be maddening. Until I experienced this, I thought poison ivy was maddening. Nope, not close.

Once I thought anything compared to such an itch represented a passion or a craving... like the drive an artist feels pursuing the perfect sunset or that craving for chocolate milk that compels you to get dressed in the middle of the night to go get some. Maybe it refers to something we can't get enough of - not like an addiction but like an enthusiasm that doesn't diminish over time.

Do you have 'itches you can't scratch" that propel you forward with a sense of adventure or hope? Thinking about that took my mind off the shingles itch for a few minutes. Here are a few that popped up on my list.

*Reading - I can't imagine life without it.

*Driving - In the country, stopping on a whim.

*Laughing - Turn red, lose your breath kind.

*Ice cream - My ultimate celebration treat.

*Solitude - To recharge or do nothing.

*Writing - Just because.

We could debate the philosophical ramifications of this adage, like the lack of discipline if an 'itch' controls you, or the instant gratification concept that is pervading our lives more and more, without thought of consequences. (Or, now that baseball season has kicked in, the impropriety of scratching some itches in front of a camera). That is too serious for today. Maybe later.

PS. We 'scratch' an itch; we don't 'itch' an itch.