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Thoughts on how chronic pain impacts empathy and compassion
Chronic Pain | Last Active: Feb 23 6:07pm | Replies (20)Comment receiving replies
Well said.
I've noticed that people who have chronic pain (and other diseases such as cancer) can be some of the most appreciative, kind, sensitive and helpful people to others who suffer from the same issues.
I've also noticed the opposite in others.
From from own journey with chronic pain and cancer, I'm thinking is has to do with the person's attitude (choosing to be a victor and not a victim) and the person's focus (on others vs. yourself).
Food for thought.
Replies to "Well said. I've noticed that people who have chronic pain (and other diseases such as cancer)..."
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Yes. I’ve seen that too. Awareness is key.
Can see both glass half full or half empty. Having the awareness helps me out of a fix of frustration and anger at the pain, the disability of it. But then…I think, there is always someone else who has it much harder than I do. So, it takes the wind out of that sail.
Like you said, victor vs victim. It is a viewpoint to have.
It’s hard to smile when howling in pain BUT I say to myself just hang on until it passes and know and have gratitude there are times its better, knowing that ‘appreciating’ that ‘gratitude’ is definitely an attitude.
Positivity attracts, Negativity repels. Which one am I? I need to check in with myself to make sure I am on the right path. Then I can say, today is a day I’ll be light share in it and smile…Even if it’s difficult at times.