Pain

Today I woke up in a lot of pain.  This cold weather mixed with two types of arthritis is not a good blend.  I tried to do chores anyway, wanting to work on music but my hands are swollen so that is not going to happen.  I did get laundry done and am homeschooling now. 

Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are unseen diseases...except for swollen joints.  But it makes life hard.  And it isn't a push through the pain type thing.  That makes it worse. 

So if I seem quieter, or am absent from activities, or have to get up and move around, or leave early....I appreciate those who give me grace and prayers. 

Little things are hard ...unloading the dishwasher, cleaning the shower, sweeping and mopping.  I am blessed that my son helps me with chores without complaining.  

Sometimes even talking on the phone hurts...because I have to grasp the phone.  Or washing dishes by hand because I have to hold the dish.  Or even sitting for a period of time hurts.  Walking hurts. 

I find peace in spending time with my Heavenly Father who reminds me this is just a temporary body I am in.  One day I will be made whole.  

I want to do things like decorate with lights for Christmas, replace our old deck, plant flower beds, can vegetables from the garden like I used to, be able to drive for longer than 45 minutes without paying for it in pain.  

But I have learned to be a little less hard on myself.  I can try to do what I can do to help others.  I can pray for others.  I can hug and listen and cuddle with my cat.  

In the midst of this I find I am still so thankful to Jesus for saving me from hell, for encouraging me by the Comforter, and for my friends and family who help distract me from the pain for a time. 

Today I heard the whisper of God in the 20+ birds that landed in our yard at the bird feeder.  God cares for every sparrow and He cares for you and me.  There is nothing that can separate us from Him once we have become a child of God thru Jesus Christ. He is good all the time and His goodness is a sweet and precious thing that surpasses any good we know here on earth. 

Back to blankets and heating pads...if you have a prayer request, reach out and I can pray with you :) Jesus is my JOY!