I've been thinking about how my life has changed since my RA diagnosis about 3 years ago. Although it's easy to focus on the negative changes there have been positive changes too. It takes more effort to see them; I have to disengage a bit from the daily struggle and try to see myself from a different perspective. I think it's a healthy, encouraging thing to do so you might give it a try. Here's what I found.
I am a more empathetic person now. I am more attuned to other people's pain and struggles and more able to offer encouragement and help.
I've found the time to re-discover things I have a passion for that aren't empty, material things. For me I've found intense satisfaction and joy in playing music and writing. I don't even watch TV much anymore!
I'm more able to accept other's help and appreciate the friends in my life who really care about me. I don't take their presence in my life for granted anymore.
I feel like I'm on a spiritual journey now...not just following the same old rut, following someone else's lead.
I've learned how to take better care of myself; spirit, mind, heart, and body.
I've learned to be more vulnerable and accept my limitations without giving up my dreams and goals.
I've learned to cry and accept other's comforting.
I've learned to ask for help when I need it instead of always being stubbornly independent.
Life is very complex. What we suffer is not fair, yet we grow in ways that would not be possible if life were always easy. It's a paradox that can be maddening, yet if we can accept it, we can experience a different kind of joy and contentment. Don't misunderstand me, there are days I can't see anything positive, but I strive to find some balance in the reality that is my life. I hope you do to.
What a cool thing to post! I feel that RA has given me much of the same thing. It certainly has change what I value and what I am willing to spend my time on.
I really like the way you express yourself.
[QUOTE=Alan]I've been thinking about how my life has changed since my RA diagnosis about 3 years ago...............[/QUOTE]
Alan,
thank you so much for posting the above - as a newbie who is very unsure of what's to come, and how to deal with it; I find it quite inspirational.
Jemm.
Alan: What a terrific sentiment!!
Susan
Luv, N&T tamble();
thanks for your insight....I needed thatYou made me think about how it has positively effected me Alan. Thank you. The biggest thing is I have never considered myself egotistical but very confident. I always felt I had so much to offer others, adventurous, humor, intelligence. Now I have to humbly accept help from others. Never easy for me. All I have to give back is my appreciation and I am more humble. It is so much harder for me to be witty, carry an intelligent conversation or instigate an adventure. RA has taught me humility and gratitude. That is a good thing.
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