What is “Normal” for Someone with Chronic Pain?

James 1:12 - Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.

What is normal? That’s a heavy question. Normal to some is being free from pain, coming and going as you please, and feeling a sense of accomplishment at the end of a day. But that’s not what a person battling chronic pain looks like. Yet, here we are trying to be “normal.” It puts a lot of pressure on us to try and look like we have at least part of a normal lifestyle. Yet, for me, after battling chronic pain and illness for over twenty-six years I’ve learned there really isn’t a “normal” and if there was one, I don’t want to be it. What I want is to be an encouragement to those who are suffering. I want to minimize how much pressure I put on myself and be who I am. I want to show the world that there is life after an injury. And you know what? Life can be filled with blessings, joy and yes, fulfillment. But I’m not going to get there by myself. I’m going to lean into God and he will show me the way I should go.