Today I read a statement/affirmation/words of wisdom that I want to share.  I’ll get to that.  But first I want to briefly talk about visibility.

Visibility in chronic illness is a frequent topic.  Or rather, invisibility is.

Although some of the symptoms and side effects may be obvious, much of the experience plays out beneath the surface or behind the curtains, where friends, colleagues and even family do not see.

These silent and insidious side effects are far reaching and include both physical and psychological processes.  Pain.  Fear about the future.  Anxiety about a new treatment.  Muscle tension.  Resentment towards our bodies.  Weakness.  Anger at the health system.  Mental exhaustion from trying to appear okay.  Physical exhaustion.  Disappointment that things are not improving faster (or at all).

So back to those wise words:

It struck me as such a simple and powerful directive that we can all aspire to embody.

In the midst of some invisible pieces of your experience, there are small ways you can claim power and make yourself visible.  This does not mean every person has earned the right to know your journey.  It simply means there is strength and courage in being right where you are.  You don’t need to pretend to be anywhere else.

Here are some possibilities: Acknowledge your pain to a friend.  Sit down when your body is tired.  Say no to an invitation.  Say yes to an invitation and leave early.  Take a short walk in the middle of the day.  Massage your neck while riding the bus.  Take a nap.  Ask for help with your groceries.  Don’t answer “I’m fine” when you are not.  Cry a little.  Educate someone (with kindness) about your condition.

By sharing even a tiny piece of your experience with the people in your life, you may start to lessen the isolation that can happen.  It’s a beginning step in aligning your inner world with your outer image.

Give it a try.

Make yourself visible.  You are worth seeing.