Reflections on gratitude even while I’m living with lupus

As another year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting not only on the milestones of the past 12 months, but also on the journey that’s brought me to this moment.

When I look back at the years when I was so sick, growing up with unexplainable pain and fatigue, I never imagined I would make it this far. I was just a child when I first began to feel the weight of my illness, and by the time I was diagnosed with lupus in my 20s, the prognosis seemed grim. My mind couldn’t even entertain the idea of living a full life. But here I am, not only surviving, but thriving in ways I never thought possible.

Living with chronic illness, especially lupus, has a way of shifting our perspective on life. It teaches us to appreciate what others might take for granted. When we face daily battles with our bodies, we begin to notice the small victories — those moments when the simplest things seem extraordinary.

For me, the days when I can rise from bed and shower without needing a long rest afterward are the days I treasure. They might seem insignificant to someone without chronic illness, but for me, they feel like small miracles. The ability to move through the day without a crash, to feel strength in my body when it has often felt weak: Those are gifts I never overlook. There’s an indescribable joy in those moments of normalcy, and that’s something I’ve learned to hold dear.

Recommended Reading

November 21, 2024 by Marisa Wexler, MS

Dapirolizumab pegol seen to reduce SLE disease activity in Phase 3 trial

So much to be thankful for

It’s easy to get caught up in the frustrations of chronic illness, the flare-ups and constant adjustments to a life that seems always demanding. But over time, I’ve come to realize how deeply gratitude runs through the veins of my experience. It’s not just about the big moments — though they’re meaningful, too — but also about the little things that make up the everyday.

One thing I’m most thankful for is the team of doctors and alternative providers who’ve worked with me in my life with lupus. It took me years to find the right support system, but when I did, I felt a shift in my entire approach to wellness. From medication adjustments to alternative therapies, my team’s insight has been instrumental in helping me discover tools that keep me living well, despite my chronic illness.

I’ve learned to slow down and honor the rhythms of my body. I’ve learned to embrace the moments when I need rest, and I’ve found new ways to restore my energy — through foods that nourish, exercise that strengthens, and mindfulness that calms the ever-present storm.

But perhaps the deepest gratitude I’ve come to know is for my body itself. It’s easy to be frustrated by the limitations lupus imposes, but over time, I’ve developed a deep sense of respect for my body and all it’s been through. It fights so hard for me every day, and I’ve learned to appreciate that fight. I want to honor my body by taking care of it, and I want to remind myself — even on the days when I feel like I’m not enough — that I’m doing my best. And that’s something worth celebrating.

As we enter the holiday season, a time traditionally marked by reflection and gratitude, I invite you to think about how you, too, can be thankful in your own life.

Here are three ways to cultivate gratitude this holiday season:

1. Start a gratitude journal. Write down three things each day that you’re thankful for, no matter how small. These could be as simple as a moment of peace, a kind word from a friend, or a warm cup of tea. Over time, this practice will help you focus on the positive, even during tough days.
2. Connect with nature. Spend a few quiet moments outside, whether it’s a walk in the park or sitting by a window and watching the snow fall. Nature has a powerful way of grounding us and reminding us of the beauty in the world, even when our bodies feel weak.
3. Celebrate the small wins. Each day, acknowledge the things you’ve accomplished, no matter how small they may seem. Did you get out of bed without pain? Did you take a moment to rest when needed? Celebrate it. These wins are worth honoring.

In the coming year, I choose to continue showing gratitude — not just for the good days, but for the challenges as well. They’ve shaped me, taught me, and allowed me to grow. As we move forward into 2025, let’s hold tight to the power of gratitude. No matter what obstacles lie ahead, we are resilient. We are fighters. And most importantly, we are alive.

Note: Lupus News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Lupus News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to lupus.