Sunday, May 20, 2012

Another year older and about ten years wiser

Today is my birthday. This isn't very exciting, by itself. It's certainly not a milestone birthday, and I don't have a lot going on right now. However, this is my first birthday since my RA diagnosis, and it was a great one despite some lingering pain. Here's to 77 more fantastic birthdays, each more free of pain than the last!

It's so strange to think about the person I was exactly a year ago. I had a different house, a different roommate, a different relationship, and a totally different take on life. I'd rigidly planned out my next ten years, down to dates and locations. I thought I would breeze through the remainder of my credits, graduate this year, and head out for law school. I thought I would continue to work retail until I broke down completely. Most importantly, I had self-diagnosed the pain and swelling in my fingers as moderate carpal tunnel, and I ignored the pain in my feet completely. On my 22nd birthday, I had no idea of the giant roadblock about to be plunked down right in the middle of all of my carefully constructed plans.

Despite that giant roadblock, complete with daily pain, stiffness and self esteem struggles, I am happy to say I like myself more today than ever before. I've come a long way from the negativity and self-doubt that used to surround me. I'd like to think I am happier, more relaxed, and in some ways, healthier than I have ever been.

Thank you so much to my friends and family for the support and love they've continually given me this year. I could not have made it without you!

6 comments:

  1. Happy (belated) Birthday! I think this is a wonderful post that I can learn a lot from. Here is to your next 77 years of health and happiness! I learned a lesson this past year as well, making plans usually fall apart!

    A

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you thank you! Here's to your life of health and happiness as well! I learn new lessons all the time; watching my plans fall apart has never been my favorite, but I keep trying in the hopes that someday they'll work out!

      I love your blog!!

      Delete
  2. Happy Birthday, Kathryn! You're on the right track!

    ReplyDelete
  3. 2klqewandf,mwebrasdjm,vbnsdf,cmnvml., HAPPY BIRTHDAY! I love you so much and you are such an amazing person, and I'm glad to have you in my life, even if we don't talk as often as we should. Someday I'll post in my blog again. Or maybe start a whole new one! We'll see.

    ReplyDelete
  4. best blog post yet! I love the positivity and the recognition of personal growth. you have always been wise beyond your years but this post demonstrates this perfectly! stacy

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. SB! You are wonderful! Thank you for being such a steady reader and for your lovely comments. This has been my very favorite post to write.

      Delete