This week, five years ago, I was diagnosed with narcolepsy. My five year younger self was so scared and unsure how “narcolepsy” would fit in my life. It was so unwelcome. If I could go back and whisper in my younger ear, this is what I’d say:
You will be okay. You are not alone.
You will face loss, heartbreak, anger, deep sadness, dark days. Keep going.
In the midst of the worst, you will discover your most beautiful fearless self. Keep going.
It will take you a while to recognized your new self and even longer for others to see it. Keep going.
You will free-fall totally unsure of where you’ll land. Keep going.
One morning, five years down the road, you will wake up in the shimmering silver lining of the cloud, knowing you are perfect this way, you are okay and you were never alone.
{ 16 comments… read them below or add one }
I love this. Great message here. Keep fighting, keep going.
I’m so proud of you, on a multitude of levels.
Thank you, Alex! Big smiles from DC, J Fly
Very inspirational! Keep going!
Have a great day!
Thank you, Debbie! Have a great day too!
So happy you are in the silver lining! Enjoy the view from up there.
Thank you, my dear friend Gail!
SUCH a great message! Thank you for sharing so unselfishly!! So proud of you!! Love you, Julie!
Keep Going!❤
Michelle, your comment means so much to me. Thank you so much for your kind words. Big hugs and smiles, Julie
…and you were perfect all along. you shimmer in your writing and give all
of us reason to keep going and hoping.
Thank you so much, Rebecca! That means the world to me. Big smiles, Julie
You’re my inspiration….
Wonder where I’ll be in 5 years? It’ll be just over 3 months when I show up at the conference….
Thank you so much, Lawrence. You’re a strong insightful person and I feel lucky to call you a friend. See you at the Narcolepsy Network conference!
Julie –
Wow 5 years?!?! That’s crazy!! When you’re tired it drags, when you sleep it speeds up but when it all comes down to it, time flies.
You could also tell yourself:
You will find a way to fight for yourself and become the voice for ALL Narcoleptics. You will be seen as a role model, an inspiration and give hope to many.
I love your spirit!!
Keep Going!!
-Lelia
Lelia, I never imagined that my journey would inpsire others. I feel so blessed for all the support and friendship I’ve received along the way from kind wonderful people like you. Thank you so so much. Big smiles, Julie
This succinct perspective is well written. Your view of Life, the equanimity with which you face your obstacles, astonishing. You’re less than half my age; I wish I had your courage- such resilience- in facing my own illness. Last week, I came across something your father wrote to me about you circa 1996. His pride in you fills my eyes with tears as I write now. Thank you for your inspiration.
Hi Christina, Thank you so much for your kind comment. Cheers, Julie