Someone recently recommended that I write down everything I've learned from my serious and lasting illness. I strongly encourage this kind of thing myself -- I don't want to repeat lessons I have already learned. So, in full endorsement of this idea I endeavored to enumerate these important life lessons. I have truly changed as a result of the adrenal fatigue problems, and in many ways the changes are good. As I move on in my recovery, I will hope to remember these things and remind myself of them when I can.
- Do not take anything for granted. Appreciate walking, talking, music, and singing. Appreciate food and shelter. Never forget that someone who has these things is rich beyond measure.
- When you are in true need, you find who your true friends are.
- There is a community of chronically ill people all over the world. Most healthy people are completely unaware of the daily struggles of these sufferers.
- Who I am is more important than what I have.
- Success is defined not by outward appearance, but conquering inward struggles.
- In the midst of my worst pain I learned this mantra: “It will pass.” Whatever the anguish, physical or mental, it will cease. It is only my job to endure.
- Don’t over-research your condition. Continuously reading stories of suffering and pessimistic medical conclusions will weaken your spirit. Find a source of hope.
- Sometimes victory is found in simply not giving up.
- Slow down and enjoy simple tasks. Cleaning and cooking have brought me peace and pleasure. Washing dishes while practicing mindfulness is bliss.
- If God does not provide answers, He will nevertheless provide hope and comfort and presence.
- You can give purpose to your suffering by helping others who are going through the same thing.
- Diet and nutrition are incredibly important and are critical for long term, lasting improvement.
- A lifestyle of constant "doing" without rest or relaxation ("being") leads to chronic illness. Many people live too fast.
- I've learned to accept things that are "less than ideal." Sometimes I don't have time/energy to perform a task as well as I wish, but I just have to accept it as good enough and move on.
- Don't be afraid or ashamed to see a counselor for depression and anxiety. Even if it is caused by a condition, the right counselor can help you make it through hard times.
- Our bodies are complex, treatments that work for one may not work for another.
- Love as much as you can, as often as you can, without expecting anything in return. This leads to joy and peace.
- When you wonder if you will ever be healthy again you stop worrying about what kind of car you drive, your success in your career, even about finding a special someone -- you only want your health back.
- Remember a long journey begins with small steps. Remember sometimes you take the wrong path or go the wrong way -- but if you don't stop, if you keep going, you will eventually make progress. Don't let setbacks or slow progress deter you. Think in months and years, not in days.
- I must never forget these lessons as long as I live.
