Being strong… What does that really mean? I'm not talking about going to the gym lifting weights. Let me break it down, now this is just what I perceive as being strong. Let's begin with being physically strong when you're dealing with many painful ailments. Every ailment causes pain; these cause you daily pain at different levels, but are very unpredictable. You are physically strong if you decide, you know what, I'm going to get out of bed and change my clothes, do my hair, make it to the couch, etc…those that don't struggle with daily pains don't know how much strength it takes to do those tasks. Now, let's talk about emotional strength. Living with daily pain can definitely affect your emotions. This is especially true if you don't have a good support system. Pains can be low one minute and the next become unbearable; so you could experience an emotional rollercoaster. Being strong emotionally, takes more strength than physically in my opinion. Okay so let me say this, to me mental strength is at the top of the list. Living with daily pains, having to depend on others, people not understanding, not empathizing, not having a support system, people accusing you of faking, etc… Come on, like all these aspects can take a toll on anyone's mental state. Everytime I go to a doctor's appointment, no matter which doctor it is, every last one of them always asks if I have DEPRESSION. Which is confirmation that anyone having these types of health issues can suffer mentally. It's a struggle every single day, it's a fight, literally, because your body is fighting against you… Some days you win & some days you lose(but not really because you don't let it define your life).

I just want to say to anyone that is going through something… never think that you are less than. Don't allow others to bring you down because of their ignorance. If they don't want to learn and try to empathize, they shouldn't be in your life(I know easier said than done). You're already dealing with a lot, you only need people who genuinely have your best interest in your circle. YOU ARE A WARRIOR, A FIGHTER, A SURVIVOR, YOU'RE LOVED, YOU'VE GOT THIS

PEACE, LOVE & POSITIVE VIBES ✌🏾❤️🧘🏾‍♀️🌻💪🏾
© PeacockGem