We recently asked the CreakyJoints community what having a chronic disease has taught them. Here are three common lessons that came up:
Gratitude:
Adapting to a chronic disease is frustrating. Battling fatigue, physical challenges, and emotional obstacles can wear us down. But finding what we can do helps with our perspective. When days are good savor them and find joy in the moment. We know that these moments help us get through the rough days.
“This a wonderful day. I’ve never seen this one before.”
– Maya Angelou
The meaning of true friendships:
The 
unpredictably of chronic disease can stress even the deepest relationships. “In sickness and in health” takes on a new meaning when battling a chronic disease. It’s easy to be a friend to someone when things are good but true friendship is being their when things are bad. Cherish those friends/family who stick by your side when things are the worst.
“Lots of people want to ride with you in the limo, but what you want is someone who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down.”
– Oprah Winfrey
Inner strength:
Who else can function while their body wages a war against itself? You can! And you do! You battle fatigue, pain, insomnia, stress (and we could go on and on), everyday. In spite of that, you are alive and fighting. You are strong. Don’t forget that.
“Go within every day and find the inner strength so that the world will not blow your candle out.”
–Katherine Dunham
What do you have to add? Let us know by commenting below.
