What I Learned from Over Two Years of Illness

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.

1. 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.
2. When you are in true need, you find who your true friends are.
3. 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.
4. Who I am is more important than what I have.
5. Success is defined not by outward appearance, but conquering inward struggles.
6. 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.
7. Don’t over-research your condition. Continuously reading stories of suffering and pessimistic medical conclusions will weaken your spirit. Find a source of hope.
8. Sometimes victory is found in simply not giving up.
9. Slow down and enjoy simple tasks. Cleaning and cooking have brought me peace and pleasure. Washing dishes while practicing mindfulness is bliss.
10. If God does not provide answers, He will nevertheless provide hope and comfort and presence.
11. You can give purpose to your suffering by helping others who are going through the same thing.
12. Diet and nutrition are incredibly important and are critical for long term, lasting improvement.
13. A lifestyle of constant "doing" without rest or relaxation ("being") leads to chronic illness. Many people live too fast.
14. 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. 
15. 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.
16. Our bodies are complex, treatments that work for one may not work for another.
17. Love as much as you can, as often as you can, without expecting anything in return. This leads to joy and peace. 
18. 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. 
19. 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.
20. I must never forget these lessons as long as I live.