A few days before Easter, I caught a really bad bug. I’ll spare the details, but suffice to say, it was one of those things that we with chronic illness (especially if we’re taking immunosuppressive drugs) dread. Not only does it make us feel absolutely miserable, but it throws everything else in our carefully-orchestrated lives off. I had to stop the immunosuppressive drugs while ill, and most everything else had to be put on hold, too.

Now, I’m feeling better, slowly. And resolved to climb back into “regular” life slowly, too – and much more cautiously. This, I think, is one of the most difficult aspects of recovering from an illness, especially if you have other chronic conditions that affect daily life, too. We’re happy we’re feeling better, and others are happy, too. We can’t wait to get back to the activities and people that make us smile, that give us enjoyment. At this time of year, well, we simply cannot wait to get out and about!

But I know too well that the days right after a bug has been squashed are days to be held a little more closely than our happy hearts would like us to.  Energy will be lower, perhaps resistance to other bugs will be lower, too. Climbing back slowly will help build strength for healthier days to come.

So, I’ll resist the urge to speed up too soon. And along the way at this slower pace, I’ll be able to appreciate the life and world that God has given – beautiful, bright, and comforting!

Blessings and joy,

Maureen