Over a year ago one of my good friends was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease).
I’ve been in awe and inspired by her attitude given her circumstances.
I asked if she would share a bit of her journey with us. Below is just one of many incredible writings from her Caring Bridge Journal.
My prayer is that you find strength through Shelly’s faith for whatever you are going through. A link is included if you’d like to visit her journal or share her story/journey with those that could also be encouraged!
“You’ve read that I am forgiven and free.
In my pre-ALS life, God delivered me from life-controlling depression. My heart was healed and my mind was set free. I experience joy and peace that transcend understanding. So I say that I am forgiven and free to remind myself that I can live a relatively drama-free life characterized by joy and gratitude.
I can’t control what is happening to me physically. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis is in charge of that.
I can control what goes on between my ears.
It reminds me of when I quit smoking years ago. I was addicted. Bad.
God gave me a vision of what my life would be like in 20 years if I didn’t quit. I was literally transported to another place and time. I was on my way to visit my grandchildren and rolling an oxygen tank behind me. I was shaken and never smoked another cigarette.
So one breath at a time, one craving at a time, one thought at a time I would stop and consider what I was feeling physically and emotionally. Would I succumb to my brain screaming for nicotine? No. Quitting was one of the most difficult things I’ve ever done. Becoming a non-smoker was a gift.
Tonight I’m wrestling with thoughts of fear. Waves of sadness for my family and friends wash over me. I’m feeling frustrated with my new normal. The thoughts and feelings come. I can’t control that. I can control what I do with them.
I acknowledge what I’m feeling. The tears fall. I replace my thoughts of fear with words from God. “Do not be afraid, for I am with you.” Isaiah 43:5. It’s ok to be sad. Even “Jesus wept.” John 11:35. I replace my thoughts of frustration for what I can’t do with thoughts of gratitude for what I can. One breath at a time. One thought at a time.
Life is experienced between the ears. I choose peace, joy, and gratitude. What a gift from my heavenly father.”
