As we step into a new year, it’s a great time to reflect on our journeys, especially for those of us living with chronic illness. Setting goals or intentions can often feel overwhelming, but Claire has found that approaching this process with short-term intentions can create a more manageable path forward. Long-term goals can shift as our health fluctuates, making it difficult to maintain focus on distant outcomes. By setting shorter goals, Claire reminds us that we can remain adaptable and stay in tune with my body’s needs, allowing for a more gentle and fulfilling healing journey.
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Prioritizing Myself and Healing Forward
This year, my focus is on “healing forward” by prioritizing myself and my body. I’ve come to realize that some activities I used to do without thinking now cause me discomfort or pain. For example, repetitive bending can lead to significant strain, and I’m working diligently to recognize these actions before I do them, rather than feeling the repercussions afterward. This recognition is a crucial step in my healing process and a vital part of honoring my needs. By prioritizing myself, I aim to create a supportive environment for my healing journey.
A Word for 2025: Release
Recently, a new friend introduced me to a lovely concept—giving each year a word. For 2025, my word is “release.” This year, I am focusing on letting go of control over the things that are beyond my grasp. Living with a chronic illness often leaves us feeling like we have little control over our circumstances. We fight hard for our health, advocate for ourselves, and cling to whatever control we can muster. However, I’ve learned that it can be incredibly liberating to let go, to allow help in, and to focus on healing. I’ve been fighting to maintain the ability to do things I once enjoyed, even when they caused me pain. This year, I am determined to continue this journey of release.
Finding Moments of Light
To my fellow members of the chronic illness and disabled community, I want you to know that you are worthy of and deserving of a beautiful year. Your experience may look different from someone else’s, but that difference doesn’t diminish the value of your journey. It’s essential to seek out those little moments of light that can brighten our days. Whether it’s a stunning sunset, a coffee date with a friend, or the finale of your favorite show, these small joys can make all the difference.
Today, I had a moment of laughter that encapsulated the importance of these little instances. As I opened the lid to my coffee, my straw shot out of the cup, and my fiancé, LuLu, and I erupted into laughter. After a long night of pain, that tiny giggle felt monumental—it transformed into a five-minute laugh attack that lifted our spirits.
These little moments of light are incredibly important. They remind us that even amidst struggles, joy can be found in the simplest of things. As we navigate this new year together, let’s cherish these moments and continue to support one another on our healing journeys.
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