Happy Independence Day – and Independence Day Weekend! I hope you enjoy your celebration, however you manage to commemorate the day.

This year, I have been reflecting on the concept of “independence” day, both for this country and for life with chronic illness.  I put the word in quotes because, actually, the history of the country, and life with chronic illness, are both build more on inter-dependence than independence. Each event in U.S. history has influenced the next event and the next. Each generation, however it wants to see itself as “new,” is part of the ongoing history of the country rather than a brand-new start.

And it’s this way with our lives with chronic illness and pain. Yes, each new day provides us with opportunities for “a new start,” or a “new” approach.” But, really, we are building upon what we did yesterday and the day before. We might try to change course at some point, but we’re still moving down the same river!

I like the idea of building on past successes, improving on the healthful things I’ve done previously, and looking to a future that’s strong because I’m doing strengthening things now to help it be so.

And I like the idea that, no matter how much strife there has been in our nation’s history, no matter how much conflict, the continuity has endured, and our nation takes all lessons from the past and incorporates them into the present and future.

So, again, Happy Independence Day! I pray that what you do today will build toward a brilliant tomorrow!

Thank you, Lord, for this country,

Maureen