What do I know for sure?
1) I got sick eight
years ago. Here's a link to my piece with more details about my journey -
2) I am always learning
about my various invisible disorders - management, etc.
3) I have to limit my
screen time - for example, check my e-mail once daily (unless truly urgent),
limit my texting, etc.
4) Comparing myself to
others has limited value. Seriously, there are millions and millions of people
in the world – of course there's someone out there better off than you, and
worse off.
Medically speaking,
comparing myself to myself earlier in this journey might be valuable if I can
learn something.
As a person, comparing
myself more generally to myself might be helpful when thinking about what I
really care about. For example, I loved the connections I had with other people
through my musical world. Having connections can come from other sources.
5) there is value in
asking myself "am I still getting something out of my therapy?". This
question applies to each of them. If I'm still noticing change, something
different - in a way that impacts my life positively - even if it's not BIG,
the answer is "yes". Because this means my brain is learning. That's
what brain re-training is all about - learning.
6) There's a lot that I
don't know for sure. Life is full of uncertainty, and it's actually better, I
believe, to recognize and accept that.
7) I want to try to
enrich my life where and when possible. Trying out volunteering at our local
food pantry, to see if that's a good fit. Trying out some kind of volunteer
project at Dr. Margolis' office.
8) that I'm determined, tenacious,
a good problem solver and intelligent. Whenever my life presents difficulties,
challenges, I use these qualities to approach whatever is happening in my life.
As cliché as it sounds, it really is true that every time I encounter a
difficult stretch in my medical journey, I build self resilience.
9) I have disabilities.
10) I am strong and
compassionate.
11) I have a family who
loves and supports me.
12) the sun will rise
and set each day - hence the pictures with this piece.
13) I have a lot to be
grateful for.