As I was thinking through what POTS has given me, I ran across this blog post by Michael Hyatt. The questions he suggests asking amidst adversity are great. They are all worth ruminating on and may help you find a more positive perspective.
10 things I have gained from being sick:
1. Greater compassion: Hands down I have never felt more compassion towards others going through illness or other difficulties than I do now. There is an empathy and solidarity formed by first-hand experience.
2. Capacity to appreciate the ordinary: The simple things, even the ordinary or perhaps mundane parts of life, have so much more meaning to me. I never used to think much about taking a shower every day, sitting up in a chair or moving through my day without giving a second thought to what my heart was doing with each movement I made. But now, these are things I appreciate when I am blessed with them.
3. Better understanding of anatomy, biology and how my body works: I have always been more into words, language and writing than math and science. When you are faced with a syndrome that encompasses so many internal systems and symptoms, you have no choice but to become an expert on how it all works and fits together. I now enjoy the new things I will learn and the connections I will make during my appointments with my ND, which are as much about treatment as they are about education. Having a better understanding in these areas also allows me to have more intelligent, productive conversations with medical providers.
4. More time with my family: When you can't work and have to move back in with your parents at the age of 30, it can feel like your life is going backwards. However, I have really liked being able to spend more time with my family. It has been especially great to be closer to my baby nephew and see him on a regular basis. There is nothing more uplifting for the spirit than an innocent, sweet baby.
5. Deeper faith: Ultimately your spiritual journey is what this life is all about. My faith in God has become much deeper and stronger since becoming ill. This is something I would never trade away.
6. Ability to connect with wonderful people around the world: There are a few things in life that I consider universal -- smiles, laughter and suffering. There are people all around the world who are struggling with chronic illnesses just like me. Through online support groups, blogs and social media, I have been blessed to connect with some amazing and inspiring people from all over.
7. More time to read and write: Since I am not spending all my time working and socializing, I might as well spend more time doing two things I love.
8. Greater commitment to nutrition and health: Nothing will make you care more about your health than losing it. I always considered myself fairly health conscious, but now I am discovering nutrition and health in a more holistic way. Wellness means so much more to me now, and I will fight to regain it and keep it throughout my life.
9. Relinquishing the need to control: There is no time you are less in control than when battling with your health. You don't get to choose your symptoms or good and bad days. I have always been a planner and goal-seeker. While these are inherently good attributes, I was not always good at dealing with things I couldn't control. Being ill has demanded that I learn to let go and accept life as it comes. As a result, I have actually unlocked a greater strength than "being in control" ever afforded me.
10. Learning to trust my gut: Not only have I learned to listen to and trust my gut with regard to my health and daily needs, I have also learned to trust my gut in interpersonal situations. If I feel like there is someone I should reach out to, or something I should say to encourage, support or comfort someone, I no longer shy away from it or fear it might not be welcome. I accept that nudge as a sign that I am meant to act on my instincts.
What do you choose today? What have you gained from struggles in your life? Please share in the comments below.
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