A Time to Celebrate

This time of year is always a somber, humbling, and hopeful time of the year for me.  Coming up on the 17th will be my 4th "crohniversary".   I feel that it is important for me to celebrate this time of year rather than remember the fear, pain, and sadness I once had.

And honestly, most of this fear, pain, and sadness is gone.  Not 100%.  I still get sick, sometimes.  But I always bounce back quickly and that in and of itself is a complete miracle.

This past week in my Ethics in Exercise Science class we talked about Epigenetics.  In summary, Epigenetics is a growing field in science that discovers how the environment affects what genes are and are not activated.  This lesson reminded me just how important our spiritual health, mental health, relationships, diet, exercise and environment are in our health.  I have been in remission for about 2 years now and I attribute all of this to my Savior, Jesus Christ.  I also attribute all of my health victories towards my diligence to stick to a primarily plant based diet and to work on my spiritual and emotional health.  And I attribute my diligence to all those who faithfully support me.  My heart is so full.  Especially during the month of my "crohniversary".

I choose to blog the positive and growth experiences, rather than the negative.  I don't mean to paint an unrealistic or fake picture to say that what I have and do go through is easy.  Because it never is.  But I also want to say that it really isn't that big of a deal anymore.  I just have adopted crohn's to be a part of me and who I am becoming, but it certainly is not who I am.

This week in my Ethics class, my Professor complemented me and used me as an example.  She asked the class that when they looked at me if they could tell I was going through this sickness and trial.  Everyone was surprised and had no idea.  I then held back a few tears of gratitude as she complemented the light she said came from me as she watched me go through this and learn from it.  I can honestly say that it has taken a lot of work to come to the point at where I am at, but every experience has made it worth it.

I don't say this to boast, but rather I share it as a source of optimism, strength, and encouragement for all of you.   I firmly believe and testify that whatever you are going through can be turned into a blessing according to the Lords time table.  I don't know why some things heal faster than others, but I do know that things will always get better when we allow the Atonement of Jesus Christ into our lives.

So this week, and every week, I am so thankful.  And that is what I choose to focus on.

Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have questions about my journey.... I blog to share in hopes to help those going through similar moments!