If it’s possible to simultaneously feel multiple opposing emotions about sickness, then that is how I would describe myself throughout most of my battle with Lyme Disease. I feel both terribly weak and incredibly strong at the exact same time. I experience a great sense of loss of my former self, but somehow have gratefulness deeply rooted in my heart. I feel depleted in energy, yet have never felt more satisfied in my life. I wrestle with the notion that I am failing in my quest to overcome this illness. At a moments notice however, the tiniest step forward can leave me feeling victorious. I have also known a heart-breaking kind of loneliness, the kind that can only be understood if you are separated from those things and people that you love most in life. Without such great loneliness though, I never would have encountered such a profound sense of love.
In spite of being ill, failing, lonely, struggling, empty and weak, I am still buy
Would I have come to understand this truth without my illness? I do not know, but I am thankful for the lessons learned during my most painstaking days. I no longer feel the persistent urge to work harder, try harder or push myself more to heal. Contentment has finally settled into my heart.
You don’t have to do anything more than just “be,” and you will always be loved by me.
(Oops…didn’t mean to make it rhyme).
Thank you my love. That means the world to me! I like the rhyme. 🙂
Jennie; So well said. You continue to inspire me to do exactly this – know that my disease(s) have not diminished me. I have actually learned that I have talents and something to offer that I would never have discovered had I not become sick.
It’s amazing, Catherine, that sickness can bring forth talents we didn’t even know we had, isn’t it. I hope we always strive to see the beauty that rises from the ashes of our illnesses. If we can do that, I think we will continue to feel hopeful even on the worst of days.
G. K. Chesterton wrote, “Gratitude is the highest form of thought.”
Thank you for your comment RP. I like that quote very much!