CannaBlog

The stress of the holidays has finally passed, as well as the need to occasionally put on a happy face when it's now how we feel. The snow, however and cold continues in New Mexico, making life for those who are ill just a little more unpleasant. I am grateful for the mild winters, compared to other regions, but none the less it does add to the difficulties of illness. This time of year is one where special care of oneself is often needed, as well as the company of loved ones. These are the times when perspective is a cause of the experience. We celebrate the holidays as best we can, and tolerate the difficulties of weather.

It can be difficult for healthy people to understand the added strain and effort it takes to cope with traditional celebrations, as well as less than favorable weather. I can't think of anyway to explain it, but I suspect we all know that feeling, not matter if it is occasional or regular. It is a time when depression can take over and effect our well-being. Catastrophic illness is only understandable by living it. No explanation seems quite fit to describe my experience. I, and I expect others, feel more isolated during this time of year. Weather, holiday cheer and shorter days combine to make it harder to stay positive.

As hard as it may be, keep your attention on those things that are uplifting. Take the time to notice the snow, the clouds, the traditional foods and of course family. These are joys the illness cannot take from us. Each person is in charge of what they see, and taking the time to notice the beauty and joy that life still offers. This time of year can be a time to reconnect to those pleasure of home and hearth. You can be defined by your illness, or you can suck the marrow from the bones of life and refuse to be suffering. Of course, this is not always possible. What is important is to continue the journey to joy. Each cloud does have a silver lining, and while it's not always to see, it is always worth pursuing.