Today marks 10 years since I had my brainsurgery for my chiari malformation.
It's been a journey, and there are MANY things I have learned since 2009. But the few things I want to share today that I've really embraced over the years is that 1) the healing process is not as linear as I expected it to be, and that's ok. I'm always going to be exposed to new things- food, environments, tasks, etc. and as I get older and my body changes, I know that how my Chiari and other conditions show up can change too. I don't fight it anymore.
But friends, you know what?!
I GOT TO go to some parties...I GOT TO coach some amazing women this week, and not only did I get to sing and lead worship today, but I actually GOT TO belt the song I led at the last service, where before, singing just one song would flare me up, and I am also not a natural belter!
Yes, I couldn't do as much. Yes, I have been in more pain after church and resting all day today. But I got to LIVE.
If you are struggling with chronic conditions and you may not be here yet, that's ok.
Acknowledging how you feel is IMPORTANT. The work I did and the work I share with my clients is not about wishful thinking or just thinking happy and positive thoughts...no.
It's about honoring your thoughts.
Honoring your emotions.
Honoring your desires.
Honoring your symptoms.
Honoring your dreams and goals.
And seeing the connections of it all and being more aware and intentional of what to do about them.
The more you do this, the more you will get to LIVE despite whatever chronic condition you experience...and sister, it is worth doing the work to feel alive!
