Brutal, cold winds have blown across the Cow Pasture. Scattered patches of dry, brittle grass crunch beneath my feet of a once glorious green landscape. The cows, their heads bent linger underneath trees stripped bare of beautiful canopies, and drink from the trickling frozen stream. Strong and resolute they huddle together and wait patiently for a Spring they know will come.
It has been a difficult month for me. As one of the millions who suffer from a chronic disease, pain has been as much a part of my daily life as brushing my teeth. Unable to take pain medications I’ve had to learn to live with it – most days. Unfortunately, the cold, brittle winds of Winter have taken its toll. Pain once managed have taken me to my knees, robbed me of my daily routines, sleep, mobility, and worse, joy. At times, it’s made me question medicine altogether, my sanity, and God; but, I am not alone.
“According to data from the 2012 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), 11.2 percent of American adults (25.3 million people) have experienced some form of pain every day for the past three months. The study also found that even more people — 17.6 percent ( 40 million ) of American adults — suffer from “severe levels” of pain… Whether the pain originates from an injury or an infection (or some unknown cause), chronic pain often lasts far too long — and can impair a person’s ability to function in and enjoy their daily lives.”
“The number of people who suffer from severe and lasting pain is striking.” Dr. Josephine Briggs, director of NCCIH
I have always been a strong and determined woman. From the time I was a girl, I looked adversity in the face and kicked. My mantra became, “this too shall pass,” and I persevered.
I am just one of the millions and I’m certain others fare far worse than I. Perhaps, you are a kindred spirit or know someone close to you. If so, I offer my prayers for comfort, relief, and compassion.
“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.” Ian MacLaren – Click to Tweet
It has been a cold, brutal Winter in the Cow Pasture, but I shall not let this define me. Like my gentle companions, I know a new Spring is on the horizon. I will find my reserve and kick.
“This too shall pass.” Click to Tweet
I’d love to hear your comments. Talk to me. Tell me your story. I’m all ears and look for me on Facebook at SheilaMGood, Pinterest, Bloglovin, Twitter@sheilamgood, Contently, and Instagram. You can follow my reviews on Amazon and Goodreads.
People battling the dumbs often have a difficult time performing ordinary tasks: like replying to emails, speaking in full sentences, or remembering that their spouse asked them to pick up that thing at that place for an immediately forgotten but very, very important reason.
Little Piper Lousie
COW PASTURE CHRONICLES 