Slow Down! Life is Moving Too Fast
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Chapter 1: The Storm of Everyday Life
Life has felt like a whirlwind lately, and I find myself unsure of the direction to take. The recent weeks have been filled with the chaos of back-to-school germs, birthday celebrations, and the quest for Homecoming outfits, leaving little room for rest. Unfortunately, my body has reached its limit, leading to a significant Lupus flare—one of the worst I've experienced in quite some time. While I've faced similar flares recently, this one is a serious "halt everything" signal.
This description of chronic illness resonates deeply. For those of us grappling with these challenges, daily responsibilities become a struggle, even when all we want is to curl up and weep. When healthcare providers inquire about my pain levels, I typically report a 5 or 6. Yet, if I were truly honest with myself, the number would be much higher. I've simply learned to endure chronic pain, raising my threshold over time.
My infusions for Lupus and Rheumatoid Arthritis provide significant relief, but I'm overdue for my treatments. I had to postpone my last infusion until I was cleared from surgery. The medication, which was supposed to be administered in June, will finally be given next week; my last dose was in February, making this a long stretch without relief.
I strive to engage in life and share adventures with my children and husband. Thankfully, they understand that sometimes I need to slow down or take a break. However, the mental strain can be overwhelming. The days of being carefree and spontaneous have faded away. Now, I find myself meticulously planning my activities based on how I'm feeling and whether I can manage the aftermath. Still, I refuse to surrender. I will navigate these challenges, rest as necessary, but ultimately, my life belongs to me, not my illnesses.
Section 1.1: A Reflection on Chronic Illness
Living with chronic illness often means juggling responsibilities while battling physical limitations. The feeling of being overwhelmed can be all-consuming, but it's essential to find ways to cope.
Subsection 1.1.1: Understanding the Pain
Section 1.2: The Importance of Support
Having a supportive family can make a world of difference. It's crucial to communicate needs and limitations to foster understanding.
Chapter 2: Finding Balance in the Chaos
As I strive to find balance, it’s vital to embrace moments of rest and self-care.
This video, "Nichole Nordeman - Slow Down (Official Lyric Video)," beautifully captures the essence of slowing down and appreciating life amidst chaos.
The song "Clyde Carson ft. The Team - Slow Down (Official Video)" resonates with those of us needing to take a step back and reflect on our journey.