When considering the things I can and cannot do in life, I try to take a moment to truly acknowledge all that I have accomplished and the blessings that currently fill my life. I have a comfortable home, access to medical care, enough food, and resources to handle emergencies. My life is enriched by a few good friends, a spectacular best friend, and a little dog who brings constant companionship and joy. While finances are often stretched, I’ve managed to avoid significant deprivation, which is no small thing.
Living here in Florida feels like its own kind of gift. The sunny weather, year-round blooming flowers, and my three-wheeled bike allow me to enjoy morning rides nearly every day. My dog brightens every encounter, winning over neighbors and strangers alike, and making new friends daily.
I’m fortunate to live by a serene pond, surrounded by a remarkable variety of wildlife: ducks, cranes, hawks, eagles otters, turtles, and countless others. My garden flourishes with vibrant hibiscuses, bougainvilleas, and blooming milkweed that attract butterflies and pollinators. These things remind me of the beauty that is all around me, even on my tougher days.
When my physical limitations weigh heavily on me, I can find escape in books, allowing my mind to wander freely even when my body cannot. Despite challenges, I can still build a life with meaning and joy. I know it’s important to reflect on all the opportunities and blessings I have rather than focus solely on my struggles.
Some days, I can walk short distances with little trouble. Other days, I use an upright rollator, canes, or even wheelchair services. My abilities vary—some days I move with relative ease (though never without pain), and others, I can’t manage even a few steps. My balance and strength shift unpredictably, reminding me daily to listen to my body and respect its limits.
It’s not always easy to stand firm in those limits, especially when others misunderstand or dismiss them. On good days, people may assume I should always function at that level, and their disbelief or invalidation can tempt me to push myself beyond what’s safe. I’ve learned—sometimes the hard way—that doing so often leads to pain, injury, and days of immobility.
Still, I recognize my progress. I’m better at navigating my limitations now, though I’m far from perfect. When someone dismisses my pain or assumes I’m lazy or faking because I can’t do something I did before, it invalidates what I know to be true about myself: my “normal” is ever-changing. Between neuropathy, joint inflammation, fatigue, and muscle exhaustion, I must adapt daily—sometimes even hourly.
If you’ve never experienced this, I understand why it might be hard to recognize or comprehend it. But please understand that your inability to see my limitations doesn’t make them any less real. If you cannot accept this, I will protect my well-being by limiting how much I rely on you for emotional support.
Instead of focusing on what I can’t do, I have found strength and empowerment in recognizing what I can do. My abilities may be fewer, but they hold great value. I’ve learned to adapt, to problem-solve creatively, and to remain resilient in the face of adversity. These qualities allow me to live within my limits while continuing to find joy and purpose.
I have the intelligence to educate myself, the self-awareness to reflect deeply, and the courage to advocate for my needs. I’ve learned to persist—kindly but firmly—until I get the support I require. While there are days I feel exhausted and overwhelmed, I remind myself that others might face similar challenges. Often, when I struggle to find strength for myself, I find it by helping them.
Ultimately, I know my resilience is my power. By focusing on my strengths and embracing my abilities, I can live a life of meaning, even in the face of on-going challenges.
