“But I know, somehow, that only when it is dark enough can you see the stars.”
― Martin Luther King, Jr.
Many quotes by Martin Luther King, Jr. could apply to those of us who are chronically ill. Please don’t think this is an insult to him. I know that he is referring to equal rights and the struggle that has been endured by millions. But, this principle he’s speaking of is something that I can relate to.
As a preacher, he knew how to teach this principle. When things get really bad, we can see the beautiful things that aren’t always noticed by everyone. When I first started to accept my illnesses, I realized that I was much more thankful for the smallest thing. Because I had lost my health, I couldn’t do anything but rest. During the times of feeling so horrible, I started to look differently at my world.
Application of words that we may read in a quote can really touch our soul. Dr King was able to sum up very deep thoughts into a small quote that was easy to understand.
Today was very rough and I don’t know why. The day started off weird when I woke up sweating and itching. I was having a nightmare, but I notice that my CPAP enables me to sleep longer. I needed the sleep but it didn’t help me feel better. That’s one of the worst things about chronic illness.
When I was healthy sleep would get me ready to start a new day with energy. Now, it doesn’t help me feel at all rested. I’m just as tired in the morning as when I went to bed the night before.
1 John 2:9
The one who says he is in the Light and yet hates his brother is in the darkness until now
We all want to be in the Light that Christ brings, but hating other people will keep us living a dark life. On this day I’m again reminded of my responsibility to love my neighbor as myself.
@2022, copyright Lisa Ehrman
