Hello friends,
I just wanted to share with you something that has been on my mind. I see so many people who struggle with chronic pain, but one in particular that stands out from the already brave and strong masses. He lived in incredible pain and suffered more than anyone should have to. He rarely complained, never got angry, trusted that God has a plan, and never shorted anyone else from his compassion, love, and understanding. He had an amazing love for God and his family. It is so easy to become short tempered when in pain, and have a lowered tolerance, but this man lead by a better example than that. He was a true friend to all and was self sacrificing. Jerry passed away last week, but left behind a community full of grateful people just for knowing him. His passing was mourned in three countries and he is remembered fondly.
Beyond this, he lives on in the people who are changed by his example. Hope, Faith, and Love...but the greatest of these is Love. Love freely, Hope eternally, and have Faith beyond reason!!!
Never never never let the pain of the body penetrate or hinder the mind or the spirit!!! The body is but a vessel. We take care of it the best we can, but it is but a shell of who we are.

Hi Mama,

I know many people that live in chronic pain as well, I have as well but did not live with the grace that others have before me. I held on for a while but overtime I became very weak and gave into the hope that modern medicine offered me. I am blessed I was given the strength to put those things away.

Since I went through that, I have learned of numerous folks that have lived with far more pain and for a much longer period than I. And I have the utmost of respect for those that handle it with grace, dignity and a humble heart. Those people make the rest of us better just by their presence.

I am sorry for our loss, my condolances.

Steve

Chronic pain wears you down - I can attest to that. It is inspiring to find people who have been able to keep the faith while living through it. It is also reassuring to know that in SOME cases, the pattern can be changed instead of just accepted, although not always. Thankfully, in the last 8 months, I have gone from hardly being able to walk up a slight grade from my garden to my home - being ready for one of those "carts" at Walmart, to (at age 63) getting ready for the 4.5 mile walk/run in Denver. Thanking God, here, for this incredible change in my life. The fibromyalgia all over body type pain that plagued me for years is basically GONE now, after following Bill's eating/exercise plan. Bob (boblorren) and I eat as much raw as we can - juice some - and try to use the "natural remedies" so overlooked by humanity - including Sunshine, fresh air, good water, exercise, sleep, nutritious foods (unpreserved, not cooked to death, etc), spending time in nature, and trusting in Divine power. The Universe runs well when we use those natural laws to guide us - it is just SO easy to forget and go other directions. We daily have to choose to walk that walk. But ti WORKS!!! I am SO thankful for LIFE again, as I know many on this site are. Johnnie