Orientation. Disorientation. Reorientation.
This is one way that my wife and I think about our 10 year journey of caregiving and chronic illness. My wife has lived with Dermatomyositis for 10 years as of this summer, and I am very proud of her. She continually demonstrates strength, courage, and grace in unideal circumstances.
As we moved from the disorientation of a mysterious diagnosis, denial, and discomfort, we emerged into a time of reorientation. I think one of the more signifiant moments for that transition came when my wife declared years ago, “I will not be a victim. I may have this disease, but this disease does not have me.”
Emboldened by this and similar decisions, we made progress. Reorientation has been marked by partnering with good doctors, welcoming good friends, and learning that we may be becoming better people because of our problems, not due to the absence of problems.
Rather than merely surviving, we are convinced that everyone can eventually come to a glimmer of hope that they can share with someone else.
Next week, I will share some further insights about how to construct and tell your story to be most helpful to others and to become the hero of your own story, rather than the victim.
Worth Repeating
Be amusing, never tell unkind stories; above all, never long ones.
-Benjamin Disraeli
Listen to Bruce’s podcast with Denise Brown on caregiving.com
On Thursday, August 14th, I began a three part podcast with Denise Brown on caregiving.com about Telling Your Story and Where You Get Stuck in Your Story. This is a 30 minute podcast and requires no special sign in to listen.
So, please take a moment to listen and perhaps even to make a comment! You might win a free book!
Click here to listen.
