There are days I forget I even had hip surgery, the pain is so minimal.... And then, out of nowhere, it'll rear it's ugly head. Sometimes a sharp "catch" or "stab" and sometimes a dull burning ache....all of which just serves as reminder that this isn't over. We didn't really 'fix' anything.... and this next year is potentially going to be a pretty darn busy one. But, instead of doom and dread, I feel hopeful.... And folks, that's a choice! The good Lord gave me a strong, healthy body and a smart, sound mind and a compassionate, loving heart....and I don't plan on wasting ANY of it! Now, I'm not so foolish to believe that it's going to be sunshine and roses all the time. I've already had some 'dark and cloudy' days....chronic pain does that. It begins to invade your every thought and affect your every decision. But, HOW I react is entirely up to me. Does that mean it's not okay to cry, or feel frustrated, or to ponder the ever-present 'why me'??? I sure hope not....'cause *two thumbs* GUILTY right here! But, I must remember that there is always hope. There is always a purpose for me and my life, until I take my last breath. There is always someone who is suffering more than me...much, much more. And, I'll tell ya....it's absolutely fascinating how even through pain and afflictions, we can feel comfort from helping someone else. I've learned this after nearly 10 years as a nurse...I may be limping from patient to patient, and counting the minutes until I can take another Tramadol *sigh*, but there is most definitely an indescribable joy in my heart from helping others. It's kind of amazing, y'all! But why should this be any mystery? God designed it that way!
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort,who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
