10 Things I’ve Learned from Being Sick

By Stephanie Stamm

I don’t feel well. I came to Kentucky to visit my family over Memorial Day weekend, and I had intended to drive back to Atlanta today. But a stomach bug hit me late yesterday afternoon, and I’m in no condition to drive. I’m much better than I was now, but I still feel really week, and my stomach is still a little shaky. As this post is due on Tuesday, however, I decided I could go ahead and write it. As Kathy Waller noted in this WWW post, most writing is done sitting down.

Since I’ve been a bit preoccupied with how my body feels, please forgive me for making this post about what I’ve learned from being sick. (I’ve learned these things in other ways too, but being sick always kind of brings them home.)

1. I am not in control. I can try various treatments, but mostly I just have to let the illness take its course.
2. The body and its processes take precedence over our goals/plans. See item #1.
3. Be in the moment. Being sick gives you no choice. You have to be right there, dealing with whatever your body wants you to deal with. See item #2.
4. Pay attention. You recognize the signs when you feel them. Be ready to move. See items #1, 2 & 3.
5. Rest leads to recovery. Sleep when you can.
6. I still want my Mommy, but I can take care of myself. See items #3, 4 & 5.
7. Others understand. They’ve been through it too.
8. Moving slowly is still moving.
9. Though we usually take it for granted, feeling well and healthy is a cause for gratitude.
10. This too shall pass. Pun intended. ‘Nuf said.

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I am the author of the New Adult/Young Adult urban fantasy series, The Light-Bringer:

I have also contributed stories (one fictional and one true) to the following volumes: