As I sat here wondering what I could write about to inspire “hope” and make a world full of pain, discourse, and negativity feel “hopeful,” I struggled with “embracing the suck” vs. keeping the optimism. But here is what I have for you – here is my hope for you, Sisters, as you grow and change every day. Here is my declaration that I write to myself, and to you, in hopes that it brings us peace for any challenge we might be facing, but also peace for the chapter our respective books of life are in right now.
My hope for you is that you view this period of your life as nothing less than a time for growth, love, encouragement, and grace. As we struggle with a worldwide pandemic, a disheartening state of the world, and indescribable personal reflections as a result, I hope you take it all in stride. If there is anything we know here at Autoimmune Sisters, it is this:
Stronger Than You Know
Adversity is your middle name, babe. But my hope for you is for you to continue your outlook on life with every step you take. Continue to take those lemons that life gave you and mix up some lemonade. Spike it with some vodka if that particular day requires it! My hope for you is that your strength and guidance fosters growth and empowerment in others. With autoimmune diseases, the comradery of peer to peer community is as essential as a successful medical treatment plan. Lean into that community today and for years to come – you have something to offer even when you think no one is paying attention.
Hope doesn’t have to mean we only see positivity and don’t acknowledge the pain. Hope isn’t an unattainable goal. Hope today is an example we can set for our future selves. When that doesn’t feel possible, hope today is just having grace for yourself.
Seasons Of Hope
It’s my favorite time of year. We’re slowing down and starting to get away from the Summer heat – and we’re moving into the very best time of year (especially for those of us that experience seasons!). There’s nothing like a new Fall season to encourage transformation and hope for new things to come. I cherish the feelings of cooler temperatures, changing leaves, and darker days. While some “hibernate” in Fall and Winter, I feel like I come alive! So my hope is to embrace this season with renewed perspective and a thirst for growth.
Most of all – I hope you love. I hope that you take every day as it comes and give as little or as much as you can to those around you. As you continue through the crazy world we are living in right now, I hope you stand up for what you need, for what you believe in, and for those around you that might not be able to stand up for themselves. I hope that you look at your health and your autoimmune diseases as blessings and not a curse.
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