Re: The new normal, counting our blessings

[Guest guest]

Tracie I thank you for this post. I couldn't have said this better my self. as a matter of fact I wish I could have said it that well.

You have stated everything that I feel also. Peace and happiness really does come from within.

Happiness is really wanting what you have and NOT having what you want. Loving what you have and not feeling there is something you are missing.

You have been an inspiration to me and others. I wish you all the peace and love this wonderful life has to offer.

You and your family have the merriest of CHRISTMAS'S. Yes I did say Christmas.

With love and great respect

Jackie

The new normal, counting our blessings

As I sit here tonight i find myself reflecting on the blessings that having a chronic disease has surprised me with. I realize that although my life has changed dramatically, I'm here with more than 600 people on a similar journey. Some of you are just starting out-- as we were 10 years ago. Some of you have been part of the "family" for it's duration, and have shared in preparing a pathway for those that are new to "sarcoidosis."

When I was working, rarely did I have or take the time to look inward. I found my identity in my work, and the relationships that I had then. Lunch out with co-workers, shopping on weekends, family, keeping the house up, getting our son to and from his activities left little time for reflection.

Our happiness was displayed by the trip to Marine World, camping, getting the top of the line backpacking equipment--- Boy Scout meetings, soccer practice, games, dinner out, a new dress or shoes or car or ...

I looked to my husband to be the primary source of my happiness-- instead of realizing that all things external couldn't fill that space. It wasn't a void-- yet is was a "space." That space had obligations-- but it didn't have the special joy that has come with learning to be content even with a broken self.

Now, as I look in the mirror, I see the white in my very thin hair, my extra chins, my robustness. I like what I see, as the woman looking back at me is much more serene, and much less judgemental. My heart is more open to both the joy and sadness, and richness of a relationship that is no longer about filling every minute of every day with "stuff".

I find myself satisfied by beautiful music, a good book, the laughter of people around me-- sharing little victories instead of needing to have physical objects to fill the space.

My "normal" has changed-- it is rich with the blessings of a few true friendships that have stood the test of time. Friendships that aren't about the purchases I can make-- but the realness that sharing a quiet moment-- a messy house, a glass of wine-- a movie -- those are the specials in life.

To find your "Peace"-- look inside-- look at the person in the mirror that looks back at you-- and say aloud "I love you!" Even with a few broken pieces, you are worthy of love and loving. Start with loving yourself, holding yourself, and letting your love shine through-- open your heart to you.

You will find your world open in ways you could never have imagined-- and it is good!

Peace to all,

Tracie

NS Co-owner/moderator

[Guest guest]

profound lovely and helpful

thanks

Subject: The new normal, counting our blessingsTo: neurosarcoidosis Cc: " Bettis" Date: Thursday, December 17, 2009, 10:47 PM

As I sit here tonight i find myself reflecting on the blessings that having a chronic disease has surprised me with. I realize that although my life has changed dramatically, I'm here with more than 600 people on a similar journey. Some of you are just starting out-- as we were 10 years ago. Some of you have been part of the "family" for it's duration, and have shared in preparing a pathway for those that are new to "sarcoidosis."

When I was working, rarely did I have or take the time to look inward. I found my identity in my work, and the relationships that I had then. Lunch out with co-workers, shopping on weekends, family, keeping the house up, getting our son to and from his activities left little time for reflection.

Our happiness was displayed by the trip to Marine World, camping, getting the top of the line backpacking equipment--- Boy Scout meetings, soccer practice, games, dinner out, a new dress or shoes or car or ...

I looked to my husband to be the primary source of my happiness-- instead of realizing that all things external couldn't fill that space. It wasn't a void-- yet is was a "space." That space had obligations-- but it didn't have the special joy that has come with learning to be content even with a broken self.

Now, as I look in the mirror, I see the white in my very thin hair, my extra chins, my robustness. I like what I see, as the woman looking back at me is much more serene, and much less judgemental. My heart is more open to both the joy and sadness, and richness of a relationship that is no longer about filling every minute of every day with "stuff".

I find myself satisfied by beautiful music, a good book, the laughter of people around me-- sharing little victories instead of needing to have physical objects to fill the space.

My "normal" has changed-- it is rich with the blessings of a few true friendships that have stood the test of time. Friendships that aren't about the purchases I can make-- but the realness that sharing a quiet moment-- a messy house, a glass of wine-- a movie -- those are the specials in life.

To find your "Peace"-- look inside-- look at the person in the mirror that looks back at you-- and say aloud "I love you!" Even with a few broken pieces, you are worthy of love and loving. Start with loving yourself, holding yourself, and letting your love shine through-- open your heart to you.

You will find your world open in ways you could never have imagined-- and it is good!

Peace to all,

Tracie

NS Co-owner/moderator

[Guest guest]

Beautiful, Tracie..........just beautiful........and very true.

Love ya,

Darlene (missing in action right now..:-(......)

The new normal, counting our blessings

As I sit here tonight i find myself reflecting on the blessings that having a chronic disease has surprised me with. I realize that although my life has changed dramatically, I'm here with more than 600 people on a similar journey. Some of you are just starting out-- as we were 10 years ago. Some of you have been part of the "family" for it's duration, and have shared in preparing a pathway for those that are new to "sarcoidosis."

When I was working, rarely did I have or take the time to look inward. I found my identity in my work, and the relationships that I had then. Lunch out with co-workers, shopping on weekends, family, keeping the house up, getting our son to and from his activities left little time for reflection.

Our happiness was displayed by the trip to Marine World, camping, getting the top of the line backpacking equipment--- Boy Scout meetings, soccer practice, games, dinner out, a new dress or shoes or car or ...

I looked to my husband to be the primary source of my happiness-- instead of realizing that all things external couldn't fill that space. It wasn't a void-- yet is was a "space." That space had obligations-- but it didn't have the special joy that has come with learning to be content even with a broken self.

Now, as I look in the mirror, I see the white in my very thin hair, my extra chins, my robustness. I like what I see, as the woman looking back at me is much more serene, and much less judgemental. My heart is more open to both the joy and sadness, and richness of a relationship that is no longer about filling every minute of every day with "stuff".

I find myself satisfied by beautiful music, a good book, the laughter of people around me-- sharing little victories instead of needing to have physical objects to fill the space.

My "normal" has changed-- it is rich with the blessings of a few true friendships that have stood the test of time. Friendships that aren't about the purchases I can make-- but the realness that sharing a quiet moment-- a messy house, a glass of wine-- a movie -- those are the specials in life.

To find your "Peace"-- look inside-- look at the person in the mirror that looks back at you-- and say aloud "I love you!" Even with a few broken pieces, you are worthy of love and loving. Start with loving yourself, holding yourself, and letting your love shine through-- open your heart to you.

You will find your world open in ways you could never have imagined-- and it is good!

Peace to all,

Tracie

NS Co-owner/moderator

[Guest guest]

Thank you for the beautuful words and the positive attitude. I am trying to be positive and live with this chronic disease.

The new normal, counting our blessings

As I sit here tonight i find myself reflecting on the blessings that having a chronic disease has surprised me with. I realize that although my life has changed dramatically, I'm here with more than 600 people on a similar journey. Some of you are just starting out-- as we were 10 years ago. Some of you have been part of the "family" for it's duration, and have shared in preparing a pathway for those that are new to "sarcoidosis."

When I was working, rarely did I have or take the time to look inward. I found my identity in my work, and the relationships that I had then. Lunch out with co-workers, shopping on weekends, family, keeping the house up, getting our son to and from his activities left little time for reflection.

Our happiness was displayed by the trip to Marine World, camping, getting the top of the line backpacking equipment--- Boy Scout meetings, soccer practice, games, dinner out, a new dress or shoes or car or ...

I looked to my husband to be the primary source of my happiness-- instead of realizing that all things external couldn't fill that space. It wasn't a void-- yet is was a "space." That space had obligations-- but it didn't have the special joy that has come with learning to be content even with a broken self.

Now, as I look in the mirror, I see the white in my very thin hair, my extra chins, my robustness. I like what I see, as the woman looking back at me is much more serene, and much less judgemental. My heart is more open to both the joy and sadness, and richness of a relationship that is no longer about filling every minute of every day with "stuff".

I find myself satisfied by beautiful music, a good book, the laughter of people around me-- sharing little victories instead of needing to have physical objects to fill the space.

My "normal" has changed-- it is rich with the blessings of a few true friendships that have stood the test of time. Friendships that aren't about the purchases I can make-- but the realness that sharing a quiet moment-- a messy house, a glass of wine-- a movie -- those are the specials in life.

To find your "Peace"-- look inside-- look at the person in the mirror that looks back at you-- and say aloud "I love you!" Even with a few broken pieces, you are worthy of love and loving. Start with loving yourself, holding yourself, and letting your love shine through-- open your heart to you.

You will find your world open in ways you could never have imagined-- and it is good!

Peace to all,

Tracie

[Guest guest]

It is an ongoing challenge-- and some days are easier than others. We can get caught up in the losses-- and at times we do, I do even now. It is at those times that I need to sit back, ground myself, and realize again that by living in the present moment, I can be content.

For me, this has been a long journey-- 19 years of living with sarcoidosis. The real thing is-- I AM LIVING-- WITH SARCOIDOSIS!

We just have to keep on keeping on..

Hugs,

Tracie

NS Co-owner/moderator

To: Neurosarcoidosis Sent: Sat, December 19, 2009 2:13:09 PMSubject: Re: The new normal, counting our blessings

Thank you for the beautuful words and the positive attitude. I am trying to be positive and live with this chronic disease.

The new normal, counting our blessings

As I sit here tonight i find myself reflecting on the blessings that having a chronic disease has surprised me with. I realize that although my life has changed dramatically, I'm here with more than 600 people on a similar journey. Some of you are just starting out-- as we were 10 years ago. Some of you have been part of the "family" for it's duration, and have shared in preparing a pathway for those that are new to "sarcoidosis. "

When I was working, rarely did I have or take the time to look inward. I found my identity in my work, and the relationships that I had then. Lunch out with co-workers, shopping on weekends, family, keeping the house up, getting our son to and from his activities left little time for reflection.

Our happiness was displayed by the trip to Marine World, camping, getting the top of the line backpacking equipment--- Boy Scout meetings, soccer practice, games, dinner out, a new dress or shoes or car or ...

I looked to my husband to be the primary source of my happiness-- instead of realizing that all things external couldn't fill that space. It wasn't a void-- yet is was a "space." That space had obligations- - but it didn't have the special joy that has come with learning to be content even with a broken self.

Now, as I look in the mirror, I see the white in my very thin hair, my extra chins, my robustness. I like what I see, as the woman looking back at me is much more serene, and much less judgemental. My heart is more open to both the joy and sadness, and richness of a relationship that is no longer about filling every minute of every day with "stuff".

I find myself satisfied by beautiful music, a good book, the laughter of people around me-- sharing little victories instead of needing to have physical objects to fill the space.

My "normal" has changed-- it is rich with the blessings of a few true friendships that have stood the test of time. Friendships that aren't about the purchases I can make-- but the realness that sharing a quiet moment-- a messy house, a glass of wine-- a movie -- those are the specials in life.

To find your "Peace"-- look inside-- look at the person in the mirror that looks back at you-- and say aloud "I love you!" Even with a few broken pieces, you are worthy of love and loving. Start with loving yourself, holding yourself, and letting your love shine through-- open your heart to you.

You will find your world open in ways you could never have imagined-- and it is good!

Peace to all,

Tracie

[Guest guest]

The real thing is-- I AM LIVING-- WITH SARCOIDOSIS

GREAT MESSAGE-- OR DO WHAT I DO, I WAKE UP, GO BREW A CUP OF TEA, GET THE NEWSPAPER AND GO STRAIGHT TO THE OBITUARY SECTION. IF I'M NOT IN THEM, I DRINK MY TEA, READ THE PAPER AND GO ON WITH THE REST OF THE DAY REGARDLESS OF WHAT IT BRINGS

The new normal, counting our blessings

As I sit here tonight i find myself reflecting on the blessings that having a chronic disease has surprised me with. I realize that although my life has changed dramatically, I'm here with more than 600 people on a similar journey. Some of you are just starting out-- as we were 10 years ago. Some of you have been part of the "family" for it's duration, and have shared in preparing a pathway for those that are new to "sarcoidosis. "

When I was working, rarely did I have or take the time to look inward. I found my identity in my work, and the relationships that I had then. Lunch out with co-workers, shopping on weekends, family, keeping the house up, getting our son to and from his activities left little time for reflection.

Our happiness was displayed by the trip to Marine World, camping, getting the top of the line backpacking equipment--- Boy Scout meetings, soccer practice, games, dinner out, a new dress or shoes or car or ...

I looked to my husband to be the primary source of my happiness-- instead of realizing that all things external couldn't fill that space. It wasn't a void-- yet is was a "space." That space had obligations- - but it didn't have the special joy that has come with learning to be content even with a broken self.

Now, as I look in the mirror, I see the white in my very thin hair, my extra chins, my robustness. I like what I see, as the woman looking back at me is much more serene, and much less judgemental. My heart is more open to both the joy and sadness, and richness of a relationship that is no longer about filling every minute of every day with "stuff".

I find myself satisfied by beautiful music, a good book, the laughter of people around me-- sharing little victories instead of needing to have physical objects to fill the space.

My "normal" has changed-- it is rich with the blessings of a few true friendships that have stood the test of time. Friendships that aren't about the purchases I can make-- but the realness that sharing a quiet moment-- a messy house, a glass of wine-- a movie -- those are the specials in life.

To find your "Peace"-- look inside-- look at the person in the mirror that looks back at you-- and say aloud "I love you!" Even with a few broken pieces, you are worthy of love and loving. Start with loving yourself, holding yourself, and letting your love shine through-- open your heart to you.

You will find your world open in ways you could never have imagined-- and it is good!

Peace to all,

Tracie

[Guest guest]

I basically does what you do in the morning, must look at the obiturary column everyday.

The new normal, counting our blessings

As I sit here tonight i find myself reflecting on the blessings that having a chronic disease has surprised me with. I realize that although my life has changed dramatically, I'm here with more than 600 people on a similar journey. Some of you are just starting out-- as we were 10 years ago. Some of you have been part of the "family" for it's duration, and have shared in preparing a pathway for those that are new to "sarcoidosis. "

When I was working, rarely did I have or take the time to look inward. I found my identity in my work, and the relationships that I had then. Lunch out with co-workers, shopping on weekends, family, keeping the house up, getting our son to and from his activities left little time for reflection.

Our happiness was displayed by the trip to Marine World, camping, getting the top of the line backpacking equipment--- Boy Scout meetings, soccer practice, games, dinner out, a new dress or shoes or car or ...

I looked to my husband to be the primary source of my happiness-- instead of realizing that all things external couldn't fill that space. It wasn't a void-- yet is was a "space." That space had obligations- - but it didn't have the special joy that has come with learning to be content even with a broken self.

Now, as I look in the mirror, I see the white in my very thin hair, my extra chins, my robustness. I like what I see, as the woman looking back at me is much more serene, and much less judgemental. My heart is more open to both the joy and sadness, and richness of a relationship that is no longer about filling every minute of every day with "stuff".

I find myself satisfied by beautiful music, a good book, the laughter of people around me-- sharing little victories instead of needing to have physical objects to fill the space.

My "normal" has changed-- it is rich with the blessings of a few true friendships that have stood the test of time. Friendships that aren't about the purchases I can make-- but the realness that sharing a quiet moment-- a messy house, a glass of wine-- a movie -- those are the specials in life.

To find your "Peace"-- look inside-- look at the person in the mirror that looks back at you-- and say aloud "I love you!" Even with a few broken pieces, you are worthy of love and loving. Start with loving yourself, holding yourself, and letting your love shine through-- open your heart to you.

You will find your world open in ways you could never have imagined-- and it is good!

Peace to all,

Tracie

[Guest guest]

Thanks for the good words and reminder Tracie. Been difficult for us the past few and as i am finally catching up on mail etc. I found re-reading your post to be a helpful reminder.Wishing everyone peace.Matt

From: tracie feldhaus <tiodaat2001@ yahoo.com>Subject: The new normal, counting our blessingsTo: neurosarcoidosis@ yahoogroups. comCc: " Bettis" , "Skot Stribolt" <Skotsteven@sbcgloba l.net>Date: Thursday, December 17, 2009, 10:47 PM

As I sit here tonight i find myself reflecting on the blessings that having a chronic disease has surprised me with. I realize that although my life has changed dramatically, I'm here with more than 600 people on a similar journey. Some of you are just starting out-- as we were 10 years ago. Some of you have been part of the "family" for it's duration, and have shared in preparing a pathway for those that are new to "sarcoidosis. "

When I was working, rarely did I have or take the time to look inward. I found my identity in my work, and the relationships that I had then. Lunch out with co-workers, shopping on weekends, family, keeping the house up, getting our son to and from his activities left little time for reflection.

Our happiness was displayed by the trip to Marine World, camping, getting the top of the line backpacking equipment--- Boy Scout meetings, soccer practice, games, dinner out, a new dress or shoes or car or ...

I looked to my husband to be the primary source of my happiness-- instead of realizing that all things external couldn't fill that space. It wasn't a void-- yet is was a "space." That space had obligations- - but it didn't have the special joy that has come with learning to be content even with a broken self.

Now, as I look in the mirror, I see the white in my very thin hair, my extra chins, my robustness. I like what I see, as the woman looking back at me is much more serene, and much less judgemental. My heart is more open to both the joy and sadness, and richness of a relationship that is no longer about filling every minute of every day with "stuff".

I find myself satisfied by beautiful music, a good book, the laughter of people around me-- sharing little victories instead of needing to have physical objects to fill the space.

My "normal" has changed-- it is rich with the blessings of a few true friendships that have stood the test of time. Friendships that aren't about the purchases I can make-- but the realness that sharing a quiet moment-- a messy house, a glass of wine-- a movie -- those are the specials in life.

To find your "Peace"-- look inside-- look at the person in the mirror that looks back at you-- and say aloud "I love you!" Even with a few broken pieces, you are worthy of love and loving. Start with loving yourself, holding yourself, and letting your love shine through-- open your heart to you.

You will find your world open in ways you could never have imagined-- and it is good!

Peace to all,

Tracie

NS Co-owner/moderator