Comfort

Recently, there seems to be many people struggling with some very difficult things. There have probably always been these struggles, but they seem so much severe now, or maybe, they are more recognizable now, than before. I have no clue what they are feeling or what they are going through. My heart breaks for them. However, I do understand going through a trial where there are few who understand how one is feeling. As I have pondered this, I have realized that although understanding helps, in every trial we need find comfort in it, whether it be through someone else, a higher power, or within ourselves, which is easier said than done.

I remember one day, within six months after my diagnosis, when I had a moment of realization of the affects gastroparesis could  have on my life. I was struggling to get things under control and knowing what I could and could not eat. I was sick. I was weak. I was discouraged. I was frustrated. This moment of realization shook me to the core and I broke down. What a blessing it was to have a true friend see what was going on and take time to talk to me and support me through my tears, fears and anger. She did not understand what I was going through, but she listened, cared and provided comfort. That meant the world to me.

To those who are struggling now with difficult news, with a new diagnosis, with an unbearable hardship, or dealing with an incredible challenge, I say to seek comfort. It could be through a dear friend who is willing to sit, listen and cry with you. Maybe it can be found in hours of quiet meditation. It could possibly be found in finding joy and blessings within. They hard part is that each situation is so different and there is no surefire way of finding peace and comfort.

Recently, I sat watching So You Think You Can Dance. The choreographer, while talking about the dance, explain that girl portrays anxiety and the guy represents a place where she can find comfort. The dance was moving. There were smooth moments and then there were moments of chaos. There were times when things seemed peaceful and good, but then, moments hit. In reality, you can replace anxiety with whatever trial you are going through. Put that in. Over the past ten years, I have seen how dealing with a chronic condition is much like this. There are smooth moments when life seems good, then something happens and that peace disappears in an instance, and it is hard. it's a continuous cycle.

The dance was set to a song that is used quite frequently. This time, it made more sense. "In the arms of angels, may you find some comfort in." The video is below. (There are longer videos online that have the explanation of the routine.)

Thank you to the FOX YouTube Channel for this video clip.

It is not easy going through trials, especially those that leave you broken and struggling to find joy or hope. To those friends of mine who have been dealing with devastating problems, emotional hardships, and life-altering challenges, seek the peace and comfort that can help. Seek someone who can help you to face these situation, with a little more ease (though it may never be easy). Please know there are many out there who are thinking of you and sending positive thoughts and prayers your way. On a personal note, I wish I could be there for each one of you, to listen, to cry, to hug, to comfort. Please know that I am doing what I can from where I am at, as I know how vitally important it is to have a support system or find someone with whom you can find comfort, if even for a second. 

You are loved!