Finding Strength in Little Things
/By Mia Maysack, PNN Columnist
It’s a New Year, but that doesn’t necessarily mean all that much to those of us who continuously hurt. We are seemingly living in a perpetual state of Bill Murray-like Groundhog Days -- experiencing the same painful occurrences over and over and over.
Yet there are limitations to becoming accustomed to the inevitable, because the ailments themselves are ever changing and evolving, requiring us to adapt to them.
As a result of COVID-19, millions of people who couldn't begin to imagine what it's like to be housebound all day, missing out on important gatherings and enjoyable outings, know what it’s like to have a disease threatening their physical and emotional health.
It's a unique opportunity to bridge a gap with people who were once unable to relate to me. They learned how I've existed for years: shut-in, limited, alone, and cautious of potential harm or consequences.
Despite the obstacles, I chose to fixate on gifts of other sorts, the “little” things such as life itself. There is always an amount of suffering that plays a role in my everyday existence, but isn’t that just how life goes in general?
Some moments are better than others, which I am extraordinarily grateful for. Especially after having lived a majority of my years when there was no improvement, almost leading to complete hopelessness.
If I did not greet another sunrise, it's true there would be no more discomfort. But it would also mean no more beauty either. Rain, for example, is a necessary requirement for anything to prosper. And the individual storms we all experience in unique ways are intended for personal growth. They heighten our empathy, compassion, understanding and acceptance.
Through the trauma of persistent agony, I've learned how to meet others by both respecting and honoring their journeys, despite the differences between us. Incurable and untreatable circumstances can produce a special humbleness that permits clarity in seeing each other as equals, regardless of the circumstances.
Being faced with so much difficulty in activities of daily living is daunting to say the least. There were times when I have been swept up and consumed by all that I cannot do, hindering the possibility of investing energy and thought into what I can do. Or how to face challenges in more creative ways, as opposed to merely accepting “no” for an answer.
Honoring my conditions has helped me to surpass them in some regards. This has assisted in strengthening an ability to fully appreciate what I'm able to accomplish, even if it's minor. Because everything we make it through is a victory in its own right.
When reflecting upon all we've endured, there should be a tremendous amount of pride in our refusal to give up -- despite how tempting it has been and may still be at times. When we're in need of a reminder, bear witness to how far we've come and the power we have to make it through anything. Though be it far from easy, the quality of our lives is the most worthwhile investment.
Had we not been dealt the hand we received, we would not be who we are. Each of us harbors so much value to offer one another and the world through our experiences. There is always something to be learned and taught.
The treachery of pain continues to test me, but knowing I am not alone provides a sense of relief -- not that I'd wish this on anybody. I've gained a lot that I can now turn around and offer back to the world through legislative action, community involvement, public service and educational efforts. None of which would be possible without each and every twist and turn on this road we call life.
Mia Maysack lives with chronic migraine, cluster headache and fibromyalgia. Mia is the founder of Keepin’ Our Heads Up, a Facebook advocacy and support group, and Peace & Love, a wellness and life coaching practice for the chronically ill.
