I choose the pain!

I would like to share the last four and a half years of my life.

In March of 2010, I had macular pucker eye surgery on my left eye. It did not work. December of the same year I had cataract surgery on the same eye. September of 2012 and again in December, I had skin cancer removed from my face and forehead. After Christmas, of the same year, I had foot surgery on my right foot for a torn ligament. Surgery on my left foot, for another torn ligament is still pending. Because of continued pain in my right foot, I had to quit my teaching job in February of 2013. August of 2013 we had to put-down our lab, DJ, who was eleven years old.

Arthritis, which began in my right hand in 2008, has spread to my left hand, to my knees, hip, and right shoulder, and my feet. Over the years, it has gone from mild to severe in several areas, causing much pain and stiffness.  

January of 2014 I found out that I had developed lactose intolerance. Then two months later, I discovered I was gluten sensitive. Last June I found out that the bones the Doctor fused on my right foot did not hold, and that I have severe arthritis in both feet due to the injuries. The Doctor wants to re-fuse the bones again and do bone graphs on both feet.

Slowly and for unknown reasons, I developed muscle pains throughout my body, exhaustion and stomach problems (besides the lactose and gluten issues). I have mild sleep Apnea Then, finally, in August, I was told I have Fibromyalgia. Because of my left eye, the cataract in my right eye, and my double vision, it is difficult to read.

Jesus, my God and Savior, has blessed me with the most wonderful husband, who has been my best friend for 36 years. We have two great sons, who add so much to my life. We have two fantastic daughters-in-law, who are such a blessing to our family. So far, we have four grandchildren, who bring joy to our lives. I have a sister, who is always there for me. I have a small but nice home and plenty to eat. God has placed wonderful friends in my life. He has given me a passion for writing. Thanks to e-readers and computers, I am able to learn more about writing.

However, I want to tell you what my God does for me! Without Him, I would not be here today. Without Him, I would not get out of bed every morning. Without Him, I would not be able to bear the pain every time I do my stretches and exercises. God helps me rest at nights when the pain keeps me awake. He gives me the strength and endurance to ignore the pain when I have to go shopping for a short list of groceries. He helps me to focus on what I have instead of the things I can no longer do, such as teach, read small print, drive at night, ride my motorcycle, go hiking with our sons and their families, go snorkeling, go to car and motorcycle shows, or eat my favorite foods. He helps me when I feel depressed.

If God were to give me the choice, either –

                  No pain, but He would not be in my life,

                                                Or

                  Pain, but He would be part of my life.

I know what my answer would be. I know without giving it a thought.

I choose God the Father, Jesus, my Savior, and the Holy Spirit!! He is always faithful. He is with me, many times before I call out to Him. He is my strength when I am weak. He floods my heart with peace. His shoulders are wide. He loves me so much that He corrects me when I sin. Sometimes He calms the storm, and other times He calms His child. Thank you, Lord, for calming me!!

If you are going through similar issues, either health or other areas, please put your faith in Jesus Christ and you will have His loving arms around you, because He loves you.  He WILL help you, no matter your past or your present. And you will be with Him for eternity.

How has God made a difference in your life?