DEALING WITH CHRONIC PAIN- Why are we afraid to say how we're really doing?

 DEALING WITH CHRONIC PAIN

'Why are we afraid to say how we're really doing?' 

by Daneille Gray Snowden and a guest author Sheila Hester

Recently my daughter; Felecia Snowden shared a 'raw-post' on her pain and how she typically responds. In January 2022, it will be three years that she has suffered day in and out with no break with continuous head pain. At times it increases where she suffers even more.

So many suffer with a chronic pain; be it physically and even emotionally. I might add, financially too. My main focus here is physical, but this can be applied to all types. Why is it hard for us all to bluntly say, "No, I am not doing good!' Of course, it depends on our personalities and backgrounds. Yet, may I be direct here: 'Just-say-it!' Take that first step, it will land on first; the heart of God, then hearts who will pray and care, then... unfortunately, ones that become like that black dot on white paper. Personally, I can be encouraged by people all around, then that one person can say or do ugly things and it hurts my heart deep.

But, let's not let this stop us from sharing our pain with others. The word of God clearly teaches that we are created to care for one another. Read the book of Acts for example, how the church was instructed to care for the widows. I will share with you Felecia's post; she never really tells people that she is hurting. If you ask her how she is feeling, she usually says: "I'm ok!" Thus, when she shared this, I believe her pain pushed her to this place. And many responded with prayer, and love. Which in turn gave her great encouragement.

Here are her posts:

                                                                              

 In response, a dear woman of God (a giant in the faith) read Felecia's post and responded. Note; this lady is in her wheel chair and a scooter because of pain and weakness. She has suffered greatly in so many ways for several ways. 

Here is Sheila Hester's God given and heartfelt words. Let's anticipate her book she is being directed to write about dealing with Chronic Pain. 

FROM SHEILA:

My heart breaks for Felecia. I can so relate to her chronic pain & saying “I’m fine”….wanting so bad to be free of it and be able to be normal again! I find myself feeling envious of people who can take a walk in the woods or go places and see the sights or simply wake up because it’s morning; and yet can't do this because the “ever-present-companion' called: pain” has woke you up. Felecia said something very profound, “I’m not saying all this because I’m begging for attention.” Why are we afraid to say how we are really doing?

Enter

Sheila

1.) We want to be seen as vibrant women who are overcomes.

2) We grow weary of people’s words. 3.) We desperately need -“the chains of pain” to be removed so we can fulfill God’s calling for our lives & live free again. Felecia gave me the courage to say: “I’m not fine.” God bless her. God heal her. I want to write a book for all those 'afflicted,' and title it: “This is NOT God’s Will for Your Life!” We will overcome this spirit of infirmity!! God is still a healer and his love for us is GREAT & HE WILL hear our cry and deliver us for his glory!!

If you are dealing with chronic pain and need some support; feel free to contact myself, but also Sheila and Felecia click the links to their names above. 

You are not alone! And your smile in the pain speaks volumes. You set on a stage to be able to share your need of prayer and support and also to share Jesus in the midst of it all. 

~Daneille