Preparing to Fight the Good Fight in the New Year

Teresa Wright-Johnson avatar

by Teresa Wright-Johnson |

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Patiently Awakened

2017 has arrived. Welcome to a new year! First, I would like to say thanks for allowing me the opportunity to share my MS journey with you. Your comments, emails and words of encouragement are appreciated.

2016 was an eventful year, indeed. I have learned much about the disease of multiple sclerosis and how it manifests. Physically and mentally this illness has tested my endurance and my patience. Words often fail me. There were many nights I cried. I am certain there will be many more. I am human.

As I reflect on the year that passed, I remember the moments when I wondered if I would make it. I think of the many days and nights I spent trying to make sense of this. I also realize that, in truth, this illness will never make sense. It is in these moments where I rely heavily on my faith and I search for the life lessons that result from the challenges that MS brings. I understand we are different and we may not occupy the same ideology, however, I can share only my experience from my perspective.

Please know that my views are not to meant to judge or ostracize; they are solely intended to inspire and elevate. We may employ different methods, but we are all fighting the same battle. We are raging against an illness that wants to steal our quality of life, hope and spirit. One day at a time we make it through the best way we know how. There are times we hang on by a thread. It is that thread that prevents us from giving up. We hold on.

2016 has passed and we cannot go back. During our most difficult moments we survived. For me, the new year symbolizes a new beginning. It is the opportunity to rejuvenate our minds. Each year I am hopeful it will be better than the year that preceded it. I know this is a challenging feat when we are faced with a progressive, incurable disease. Still, looking ahead, I have the same dreams and wishes. I want to be a better person than I was. I want to vigorously fight this disease and maintain my hope and faith. I want advancements in research and medical technology to sustain. I want to live and walk in my purpose.

Yes, there were some things I lost in 2016 that are irretrievable. There also is much I have gained. I have a strengthened enthusiasm for life and I aspire to live and love to the fullest. I realize that tomorrow is not promised to anyone and that MS has the capacity to drastically change the course of life. I learned to invest my time and effort wisely and I am becoming much more selective of the people in my circle. I learned that regardless of what happens to me, my soul has been anchored. I learned that when I focus solely on loss, I neglect my joys, blessings and the beautiful moments of life.

Therefore, looking ahead, I feel optimistic. My experiences are molding me to become the person I am destined to be. Every year that passes is a year that I have been privileged to experience. I cannot predict what my situation will be, but I can look ahead and hope for the best. Looking ahead, let us continue to fight the good fight. We are warriors.

Note:Ā Multiple Sclerosis News TodayĀ is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those ofĀ Multiple Sclerosis News Today, or its parent company, BioNews Services, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to multiple sclerosis.

Comments

Zeneida DeJesus avatar

Zeneida DeJesus

Hi Teresa. I have been living with multiple sclerosis since 2006. I too am optimistic of the new year. Like you said in your article, we have to use faith, support and really live the small moments. I look forward to reding more of your articles.

Zen

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Teresa Wright-Johnson avatar

Teresa Wright-Johnson

Hi Zeneida,
Thank you for your response and your words of encouragement. May you continue to persevere and I wish you the best in the new year and beyond.

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Diane avatar

Diane

Thanks for sharing, I feel a strong connection to your "Patiently Awakened" I believe this how I would express my experience with this Blessing in disguise. I am still undiagnosed 4 1/2 years as I don't met all criteria however still deal with the daily unknowns and victories. I am so very blessed to be where I am today with the abilities I still have. This is the first time I have responded to a column writer. I have read a few but there wasn't a connection. I look forward to 2017 with great expectation and trust in our Lord. It is encouraging to wake up with a new day filled with Faith, Hope and Love. Thank you for sharing your experience with this disease and for your encouragement.

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Teresa Wright-Johnson avatar

Teresa Wright-Johnson

Hi Diane,

Thank you for your response and kind remarks. I am honored that you feel connected to Patiently Awakened. I wish you continued blessings and I encourage you to continue to lean on your faith and trust in God. I really believe that each day is a blessing, and although some days are really difficult, my faith assures me that there are better days ahead. Blessings to you for the new year and beyond.

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Deborah Smith avatar

Deborah Smith

I'm a 52 year old female, that has been living in a nursing home since I was 50. I was diagnosed with Ms at the age of 29 in 1993. I have been living with Ms for over 24 years now. I have yet to this day find any articles about having MS and nursing homes. I need someone to hear my story or someone else to talk to about this I have a lot to tell. It is too late for me but I feel like I can pass on some of my experience and knowledge to others who may find themselves in this situation sooner or later. My body has failed me but my mind is still working I know there's something else that I could be doing. Please help me!

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Teresa Wright-Johnson avatar

Teresa Wright-Johnson

Hi Deborah,
I respect your courage, tenacity and your willingness to share your experience. I don't believe it is too late for you. There are many people whose lives you have and will continue to touch.

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Teresa Wright-Johnson avatar

Teresa Wright-Johnson

Hi Deborah,
I respect your courage, tenacity and willingness to share your story. There are many people who will benefit from your experience. Bless you.

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Anthony avatar

Anthony

Hi Teresa. Thank you for those encouraging words. May God bless you and keep you doing those good works that He prepared for you to walk in them.

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Teresa Wright-Johnson avatar

Teresa Wright-Johnson

Hi Anthony,
Thank you so much for your kind and encouraging words. I appreciate you and May God Bless You too.

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