Today has been a challenge for me. Over the past few days since I started chemo, I have slowly felt myself wearing down, and becoming more tired, but today I just hit a wall. Even after sleeping in, I awoke feeling as if I had bricks on my shoulders, weighing me down. It was a struggle to even get out of bed. And knowing that I had another busy day of Orientation ahead of me made me want to cry.
One of the main reasons that I wanted to come back to school (other than to see all of my friends) was that I wanted so desperately to feel like a normal kid again. But my chemo and growing fatigue have served as a daily reminder that I am not exactly normal. I wanted to live life to the full while I was here, watch the sunrise, be with my friends constantly, and distract myself from the cancer. But so far, that has not been possible. I am so tired at the end of each day that I can barely make it to my bed.
What does it mean to live life to the fullest? Maybe for me right now means something different than what I had pictured. Maybe it is more of enjoying the moments that I have with my friends, and finding joy in everyday, even if it is hard. I think I am still figuring it out. It is so easy for me to get frustrated, and only see my limitations, rather than remember how far I have come.
Hopefully my body will get more used to the medicine, and I will get stronger as the days go by. Classes start on Thursday, which I am excited for, and which will get me in a good routine.
“Come to Me all you who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28
Perrin, you are amazing. You have an incredible ability to paint feelings with words and to take a hard situation and find the sunshine. I am praying that God will reveal His "new normal" for you - and in that discovery, I so cherish your honesty and vulnerability -- it is a help to all - we are all right now on this journey of life and it looks a bit different for each of us, but your willingness to share has helped put a bit of perspective on my own journey. I wish I could send some of my energy your way --- but at least know it is coming by prayer. Love you and have a great 1st day of school. Liz
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