If I had to describe what it’s been like since I began writing The Tin Mom Blog, I’d say from a personal standpoint, the experience has been bittersweet. Re-living some of the difficult times I’ve had since I was diagnosed and reading your posts about the trials you face is very hard. But at the same time, we problem solve, reach out to one and other, vent and celebrate successes together. Confirming none of us are alone in our journey is a reward in itself and makes the bitterness worthwhile!
This blog gives me the freedom to express my experiences about living with a chronic illness while at the same time challenges me by having to face real situations. At times it’s difficult to put my thoughts into words, but in the end, there are usually visible positives. It doesn’t mean I wear rose-colored glasses. It’s merely a state of mind that I choose in order to stay focused to fight the continuing battles.
Whether you agree or not, my thoughts do not discount the fact that various forms of arthritis can be extremely challenging, compromising a person’s life, as well as those around them. Not only does it attack physically, it can be devastating on emotional levels.
I’ve lost friends to this disease. A harsh reality that is often unspoken. For those of us within this arthritis family, we share a common denominator of understanding, experiences and education, in turn giving each of us strength and hope to forge ahead.
When you read my blog, you see the paragraphs I’ve selected to support a particular topic because the page is limited. But what you don’t see are the pages filled with the thoughts overflowing from my mind or the raw emotions that fill my heart knowing there are others dealing with similar experiences. There are times when the anger surfaces because I know how cruel this disease can be and how it attacks and blindsides a person at any age, leaving lives in turmoil.
On the flip side, I have stated many times, “My illness is a blessing in disguise and I wouldn’t trade my life with anyone.” A complete contradiction of feelings and emotions, yet I truly believe with every ounce of my being, I am a better person having this disease than not. It has opened my eyes and given me an appreciation for life that I wouldn’t have seen otherwise.
In the past three weeks, I have addressed “Disabilities” in four separate blogs. While there are endless avenues yet to discuss on this topic, I do not want to focus on a subject that will be misconstrued as dwelling or make the wrong impression. That is why I need your feedback. Is this a subject of interest that we should continue? If not, what would you like to discuss?
We are all in this together. I am open to suggestions and appreciate your input.
