How to handle living with multiple sclerosis
We live in a world and society that is prone to complaining and arguing. Think about it… we are discontent with our jobs, our home, our TV, our car, our families, our life, even our health. For some people it is hard to find anything that they are content with.
We complain about our work schedule, forgetting an appointment, the doctor’s office wait time, prices at the store, our boss’ attitude, and other people always complaining. We seem to be discontent in just about everything.
When we meet others with multiple sclerosis we discover we have a common animosity. I went to a meeting with other MSers after I was diagnosis with MS and I felt like I was at an AA meeting…
Hi, I’m Penelope and I have MS… then I spent the time complaining about my struggles along with everyone else. Complaining just seemed to be a part of the culture. We all complained and in our complaining we bonded together. I noticed that bitterness and complaining was contagious. When I left I felt worse than when I arrived.
We live in a society not content with anything. We get a new phone that we are all excited about until a newer version comes out. Then we are back to being discontent. Our society works off discontentment. This world is so twisted.
I decided I was going to change that kind of thinking around me. I was going to choose to be thankful instead. Do you know what happened? Did my life get better? Did MS go away? Did my pain cease to exist?
NO.
But what happened was my life was happier and less stressful. I found the good around me that I had overlooked and missed out on. I found true friendship. I found support. I found I was able to do more than I thought I could. I found joy… all in my thankfulness.
Here in the USA it’s thanksgiving season… don’t spend it complaining. Allow yourself time to vent and to talk about the problems you are facing but once you let it all out… let it go. Share your complaint in a kind way that is seen as helpful and not critical. It’s so productive when we work together.
Complain less, live more. Your life is what you make it. Fill it with gratitude.
1. Simplify your life.
YES!! I went to a few groups thinking they ALL can’t be like that, I was wrong! I’m starting a small group in my church-Finding JOY even in chronic illness. Have 3 folks interested! Our plan is to encourage each other with Scripture, discussion & whatever helps us find JOY! Will be sharing this post for sure!! Thank you Penelope!!
That is my experience as well. Glad you found a way to get people together for much needed encouragement. Thanks Chris… You ROCK!
I found YOU. You make me smile and laugh. Wish we could share a cup of coffee and a piece of chocolate cake. I know the liquid and the crumbs would make my computer happy, but the thought is there. Be well/
That would be awesome. Glad you found be too!!!
I thought it was just me. I went to a few ms support group meetings, and either left in tears or spent the rest of the day crying. I have a few great friends, an amazing husband and (most days) a pretty positive attitude. My support group was there all the time.
Glad you have support. It sucks how some groups are run. xoxo