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“All things are what you make them.”

PLAUTUS

One of the first things we discover in support groups is that even though our illnesses may be similar, we tend to “wear” them in different ways. Some of us respond and react to chronic illness and pain with a great deal of negativity; we put ourselves through lengthy periods of despair and isolation. Others become bitter and angry at society, government, parents, doctors, or God. Still others, driven by fear, become cynical and hurtful.

On another level, many people work hard to become accepting of pain and illness and try to view the conditions as natural parts of life. Some look for spiritual meaning in illness; for them it becomes an opportunity for personal growth. Along the same lines, some see illness as a guidepost of sorts, a signal to unburden themselves of tormenting character traits. They become willing to let go of resentments, to be healed through forgiveness.

Each of us has the opportunity to choose how we “wear” the illness. And each day we can choose again and start anew.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

I choose acceptance, and life.