How I found my own way one step at a time

The little video attached dates from 2016 just as I finished writing Higher Maintenance. I wanted to be one of the many voices out there bringing attention to ME/CFS and chronic illnesses in general. I needed to have a purpose and I like writing, so I went from there, to monthly blogs on coping and managing and growing as a person. I recorded the blogs for those who find reading more difficult.

Higher Maintenance has a long subtitle but is a short enough, simple read that relates my own story as if we were friends; it points out how I found ways to heal parts of my self and my life. I explain my journey from the lifelong perspective of a victim to an attitude of empowerment which was oddly enough, brought on by illness. Yes, illness is a mess of loss and sorrow but it also bears priceless gifts that can fill the heart with serenity and even allow joy to blossom within.

May my story help shed light on your unique path of healing. And beyond!

Marianne

To my Dragon Taming friends

You are an inspiration to so many with your kindness, bravery and humor.

May your Holidays be filled with LOVE and may PEACE keep your heart warm throughout the New Year!

Much love,

Marianne

The end of Blissful Unawareness

This is the life!

I love this deck chair.

I stretch my whole body with delight.

I don't have a care in the world because I deserve this.

I matter.

I am important.

I’ve suffered enough.

I put myself first.

I don’t care about politics.

I don’t know who shot whom on this day.

Is the earth burning or freezing?

I don’t want to think about that.

I just want to feel good.

Two more species have gone extinct today?

Don’t know.

Some idiot’s hand is caressing a nuclear weapon launch sequence button?

Makes no difference to me.

Not my problem.

A nice steward brings me lemonade.

Lunch is coming soon.

This is so enjoyable!

Frightened children are starving?

That’s nothing new.

Desperately ill people are homeless, you say.

Sleeping in their car, you say.

There’s nothing I can do about it.

I can’t help.

I do what is right for me.

If I don’t take care of myself, no one will.

Let’s just enjoy the day.

Forget about everything else.

I love this deck chair.

So cozy, so comfy.

Let others worry about the world.

The sun soothes my light-starved skin. Hungering for fresh air, I take in as much of it as my lungs will allow. Every time I exhale renews a sense of freedom within me. Eyes closed behind my sunglasses, I can see the shimmering waters play with the sun as they morph into a myriad of delightful colors and shapes. My brow is relaxed and the few drops of sweat my skin exudes are just enough to be refreshing.

Yes, this is the life.

No point in feeling sorry for anybody.

I deserve the best and I’ve got it right here on the TITANIC.

May compassion win out over selfishness and may Love heal our World in time.

Marianne