A Chronic Illness Revelation: You're Not Lazy, You're Sick

At times like these I have to stop, take a deep breath, get over my pity party and remember that if I were healthy, and if I were feeling well, what would I be doing? I would be working just as hard, if not harder, than everyone else.

Those of us who are chronically ill need to remember what we were like before we were sick. If you were a hard worker, and if you still are when you are feeling well, you know that you are not lazy. I don't always recommend looking back to the past when you are chronically ill because we need to focus on what we have to deal with now and move on from there. But in this instance I think looking back is important because it does show us a pattern of living that can help ease the guilt. Guilt just makes chronic illness worse and the emotional stress we often place upon ourselves is damaging as well.

I know that when I am feeling well I am ready to take on the world and I am extremely motivated. I am told that even with as sick as I am, I still get more done in a day than a lot of healthy people. I don't feel that is true, but it does feel good to hear it from others!

To those of you who are chronically ill, I think by stopping and reflecting over your life and your work ethic gives a total picture that can ease your mind with knowing that you are not lazy and never were. You are sick and you (and I) have to realize that this is the hand that we have been dealt and we have to make the most of it. Let's stop beating ourselves up over what we can't control. Love your life even if it is limited.