You know that phrase that says: “there’s always someone who is better than you or has it harder”? I believe that philosophy whole heartedly. I know I struggle with the P.O.T.S. and the symptoms of the syndrome; but I also realize there are those who are higher up the ladder at a higher scale level than myself dealing with these symptoms. Wherever we are on that ladder, none of us are alone. As we realize what level we are at, and the efforts we each need to make to manage the symptoms that are a daily part of our lives, we can also see where we may feel glad to be where we are, or envious of those who may seem to have it easier or have figured out more – or perhaps have accomplished more.
Regardless of each of our individual trials and difficulties, regardless of how much we believe we as an individual has accomplished or lost, this is not a solitary journey unless you choose to create it to be so. Even I, myself, feel at times that everyone else around me has it easier, they can accomplish and do so much as if second nature and without the extra effort. This may be true, but that does not mean that those without this syndrome go through life without any difficulties themselves. Whether those difficulties are not listed in our list of symptoms, or maybe one or two are, we all find at times in our lives something we need to manage, whether it is a different illness, syndrome, tragedy or any number of other possibilities, there can still be a life line between us. A friendship, mentor, family, or (using an old term) pen pal (Facebook would be a great current example).
Our stories may hold some of the same laughs, tears or story lines, but each of our stories are as different as our personalities.
Why am I talking to you rather than just writing my story? Because this is not a story book page/blog. I am talking TO you, and with you. I am sharing my story. Sharing means to have a conversation, each of us talking and telling our stories. This is not a story board where you are reading – waiting to find out what happens next and eventually getting to the end with all the answers (Mrs. Plum in the library with a candle stick). This is a journey, one I am taking myself, but would feel privileged to share some of those steps and stories along the way. We are all on a journey, and though some of the shorter ones may be done alone…most of the journey can be taken with friends.