Over the last several days I have been thinking a lot about fears. Fear can be extremely powerful, when you let it gain momentum. I did that recently and it crippled me. A wise friend gave me the advice to just list them- "What are you afraid of Alison? Make a list." she said. So, I did. Alright, the list is in my head because I am not yet brave enough to actually write them down. Once I started admitting the things that I was scared of, I was able to verbalize them with Jeremy, and then I was able to feel some relief. Now comes my written list.... let the healing begin!
I am afraid of:
* not being able to return to work full time.
* needing to make accommodations to my life if I am not "restored" to normal.
* the fact that I don't have a job for next year.
* being on unemployment.
* not being able to give Jeremy and Julia what they need.
Okay that is enough... I don't think we should dive so deep into this exercise that I can't see the top anymore!
On the flip side, since acknowledging these fears, my spirits have definitely lifted and I have been able to share more with Jeremy by letting him carry some of the weight for me. I have realized that being married to him is quite a gift. He sees the best in me which helps me to go a little easier on myself, and for those that know me you KNOW I am a tough critic of myself. I am grateful for the mirror he holds up.
I say to all of you out there, God doesn't lead you to what He isn't going to lead you through. Don't let fear cripple you. I thought I knew that already but I obviously needed a reminder and I am thankful I have the support of people who can give me such reminders.
My MS
Diagnosed with MS, Multiple Sclerosis, in 2007 began a difficult and scary journey. I have been lucky, compared to many other MS patients, but none-the-less my story is one that will resonate with other people living with chronic illness.
The purpose of this blog is one of therapy, for me mostly; but I do hope that if you stumble upon it, you will possibly learn something about MS and consider the thousands who live with the cruel disease each day. We need your help; donations, time, resources, but mostly we need understanding. We need understanding because for most MS patients, you wouldn't know us to look at us- we look just like your neighbors, teachers, doctors, clerks, and clergy. That is one of the most difficult aspects of this disease, in my opinion. Unless I am having a relapse, I don't LOOK sick.
I am hopeful that this blog will open a conversation with some, allow others insight, and give me an outlet.
Thanks for joining me!
God has a plan for all of us. Doors may close and windows will open. It will all work out somehow, you just have to trust that they do. I know it is REALLY hard to see the light when it is dark all around, just know it is there.
ReplyDeleteThanks October. It is difficult to look past the immediate. I will take a page from your book and keep my eye on the prize of independence from the grind! What do I want to be when I grow up?? LOL
ReplyDeleteLove you Alison!! You are doing great.
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