Be thankful that you don't already have everything you desire.
If you did, what would there be to look forward to?
Be thankful when you don't know something,
for it gives you the opportunity to learn.
Be thankful for the difficult times.
During those times you grow.
Be thankful for your limitations,
because they give you opportunities for improvement.
Be thankful for each new challenge,
because it will build your strength and character.
Be thankful for your mistakes.
They will teach you valuable lessons.
Be thankful when you're tired and weary,
because it means you've made a difference.
It's easy to be thankful for the good things.
A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who
are also thankful for the setbacks.
Gratitude can turn a negative into a positive.
Find a way to be thankful for your troubles,
and they can become your blessings...
This is true for everyone, but especially important to remember when you battle a chronic illness. I know that I have learned so much through this journey that I might never have learned, and although I don't enjoy being ill, there are positive things that have come from it. I have met some wonderful people, both on-line and in "real" life. I have learned about talents and strengths I possess that I never knew I had. I have let go of perfectionism as my ideal.
I am heading into a challenging week. I have several doctors appointments, which have me worried. My mother has had continuing difficulties with her health since developing C-Diff back in August in the hospital. They are doing a colonoscopy on her on Thursday morning, so we have the prep to get through on Wednesday and then her test. I pray they can figure out what is wrong so she can get some relief. I have a new specialist on Friday for a possible problem with my kidneys. It never ends. So I need to re-read my own post and learn to take the challenges and change them into growing experiences! That doesn't mean I won't ask for your prayers in the meantime though. . .
5 comments:
Great words. Human beings are capable of great deeds and it is adversity that brings out the best in us.
Hope the appointments go well and you have a happy and comfortable week ahead :)
"I have let go of perfectionism as my ideal". Yes, (me too) and how well you said it.
What beautiful words you were emailed and comforting right now to be reminded that it is the challenges, the adversity that nurture us, teach us, grow us..
Will keep your mom in thoughts prayers Thursday morning and you Maureen that your kidneys are okay!
Thank you Maureen for the attitude that you have in the face of your own adversity. Reading your words is wonderful for the spirit! Kerry
Hi Maureen
Your posts are always so thoughtful ~ I have once again awarded you a blogging award~ the Scribbler Award that you can read about at my blog. I am tellng people that at this time of year it is ahrd to find time to do the work necessary for the awards so feel free to refuse it :)
Renee
What a beautiful poem and so meaningful. I'll be praying for your Mom and for you. Please keep us posted as to how things are going.
Maureen,
Whoever wrote that poem you posted sounds pretty enlightened! Thank you for sharing it.
I hope you and your mom are both doing OK!
Yes, letting go of perfectionism is a hard but important lesson. Illnesses can "force" us to prioritize and focus on what matters.
Jeanne
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