The philosopher John Lennon (or whoever said it first) famously wrote, "Life is what happens when you're busy making other plans." The life we imagine when we're young isn't always the one that we live. Our paths make sudden turns down unexpected byways, leaving us to survive unchartered territory.
March is MS Awareness Month, a time to remember over 2.3 million people worldwide who are living with multiple sclerosis, an unpredictable and incurable disease. Strength, love, hope and courage - those are the words to be mindful of this month.
And, of course a cure.
As February drew to a close I couldn't decide what I'd write about to honor this important month-long event. I mean, what else could I write about MS that I haven't covered already? And what positive spin could I put on it, because that's how I choose to look at my life.
Then it dawned on me.
It's easy to GO ORANGE with Max!
Like Clarence the Angel granting George Bailey the ability to see what life would have been like if he'd never been born (you knew I'd think of a classic film reference, didn't you?) I wanted to write about how different my life would have been without my diagnosis.
I look forward to the day when I can finally say, "I used to have MS." That will be the greatest day of all. In the meantime I'll be mindful that despite my diagnosis I'm surrounded by many blessings. And, like George Bailey, I cannot be a failure because I certainly do have friends - near, far, virtual, professional and furry.
I am thankful for my diagnosis because it taught me self-compassion, survival, to remain curious and to always keep hope in my heart.
National MS Education and Awareness Month is an effort by the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation (MSF) and affiliated groups to raise the public's awareness of multiple sclerosis. The vital goals of this campaign are to promote an understanding of the scope of this disease, and to assist those with MS in making educated decisions about their healthcare.
To inspire others to create a world free of MS, click here to share your thoughts on The National Multiple Sclerosis Society's website.
Learn more about what MS is and find the latest research from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke page called Hope Through Research.
What a lovely and inspiring post. And what a beautiful way to look at the world. Xo
I just love that you found the perfect way to look at what was and is behind the door marked "diagnosis". Instead of telling all of us that we have no idea what it feels like to live in your shoes , you patiently and compassionately show us and help us understand -- even on those days where it makes you feel a bit vulnerable. You, with your selfless words, are showing us all how to live well with the hand you were dealt and make the most of the moments.
Thank you for letting me be a part of that world -- the one where your light shines and it warms us all!
Wow, starting my morning with two posts in which the bloggers seek the gift in difficult circumstances. And that's what my post is about today, too. No coincidences.
You continue to be an inspiration to me and a blessing to the blogging world and to those struggling to find the positive in thier own diagnosis.
Cathy, your inspiring message reminds me that each one of us would do well to notice and embrace the blessings we get from our individual challenges. Thank you for such a warm and important post.
Thank you for reminding me to be thankful for what I have and what I have accomplished. P.S. I love the classic movie reference.
Hi Cathy! And thank you for such an inspiring post that reminds us ALL that we can channel any experience into something positive. That does not make light of what you have gone through or what you face on a regular basis. But it is proof positive that we all have something to contribute AND that our lives can be better because of it. Thank you! ~Kathy
You amaze me with your ability to reach beyond the diagnosis to embrace the lessons learned. Somehow you always find a silver lining. You inspire so many with your positive outlook, including me!
Cathy, I love this, because I feel that you truly feel this way. And in turn, it helps us see the light in our own lives. Your post, Ruth's and Carol's are all connected today.
Beautifully expressed and beautiful thoughts. I so admire people who can find and embrace the silver lining when faced with adversity.
Sitting with my leg in a brace after tearing two ligaments in my knee in an accident over the weekend and this post is just what the doctor ordered. You're a brave woman. Thank you for setting an example. I'm done feeling sorry for myself. Now on with my day.
Your post is a beautiful reminder to all of us to find the wellness lessons in our challenges. I will take it with me into my week and practice. Lovely, heartfelt writing.
I couldn't agree more what a beautiful post! You know I come to the same place from a different road but I too don't think that I would change a thing. The gifts that I have been given in my life are such a blessing to change one would be to change it all. I think I actually began to live more after I was diagnosed than before. I think it takes a certain fear of failure away. I am so proud to know you!
I think you are an incredible person and this is a wonderful post.
I am so looking forward to meeting you!
Cathy you see the positive. It seems unlikely but I totally understand. Finding the depth in illness and life is something that some people miss their entire life. Who would have thought?
Beautiful! An attitude of gratitude supports health and well being!
Ah, Cathy, you truly are an empowered spirit. There are few people who would look at it the way you do. But honestly, given the choice...wouldn't you have preferred not having the disease? I have lived a lifetime in pain...it's just the way it is. And I wonder what life might have been like if I had not had a congenital deformity of the spine...I have learned so much from it: compassion, tenacity, willpower, acceptance...and have taught tolerance and understanding to others. But...if I could go back in time, I would love to have a body without the pain. I can't even imagine what it would be like. I'm a happy, positive person, but I wouldn't choose it again (if Carol is correct and I actually did choose it.)
This is truly an inspiring post Cathy. It's always wonderful to look at any situation we are in and focus on the positives. It made me rethink a lot...and for that thank you!
How beautiful - and how "you" - to find the positive in every situation! I'm thankful to be your friend. xo
I can't tell you how inspiring it was to read this post - I have chosen to live a positively-focused life as well but wonder if it would all crumble if something truly terrible, such as an illness, would happen to me. It is a test I am ready to face one day and I truly admire your attitude and approach as an example to others!
You are SUCH a gift, do you know that? I absolutely love you. Your list is inspiring, and your spirit is UNSTOPPABLE.
March on, warrior. This world is a better place, because of you.
what an amazing statement on health, on the human spirit, on kindness and compassion. thank you
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