You have something there, that illness, injury, near death stuff gives you a different perspective, and vulernability certainly comes into play. I personally find it much easier to set priorities, and cut to the chase of what's important, as well as know what my limitations are.

However, I think it's important to not give in to your fears and your vulnerabilities. I know this is much easier said than done, sometimes, but I think it's important to clearly visualize what you want from life, and figure out how to get there. You've had a certain self-image for most of your life, and it would be a shame to let that change because of ths stinking disease. I know a number of people who are bed-ridden or severaly disabled by RA, and this conversation doesn't play so well with them, but in every case, these are people who have retained their sense of self and found other interests and goals.

I encourage everybody to continue their lives, as best they can, and to set lofty goals. Think about what you can do, rather than what you can't. If you have setbacks, don't lose sight of where you want to be. It may take a while to get back to where you've been or to where you want to go, but start the journey as positively as you can.

I wish you all the best on your journey.

Doug

Doug has given some excellent advice. I liked the part about setting priorities and envisaging the best life for oneself. That would hold true for many challenges that come into ones life. Attitude is everything, but everyone if different. Don't let someone else decide for you how you are going handle RA...or life for that matter.

I so understand the not being able to get up part. Been there, done that, as the saying goes. As time has gone by I've adjusted how and what I can do. Some of the limitations are good things...I don't have to scrub the tub or kitchen floor, I get let off at front doors, etc.

Hang in there...a good day is coming your way.

You know I don't know if it is really eye-opening moments that cause us to change our course and do or not do things. I think they are more of excellerants to when we go about them but not really the root cause for the most part.

I look at my otherwise healthy friends and I can recall the one always, always bowling. We thought he'd never give it up. He still has his bowling balls but now plays pool. Really after literally a quarter of a century bowling no longer has it for you?

My brother who is very healthy compared to me used to go out big game hunting. He had a kid and now wants to run marathons instead. Although I must note he does like to run with his kid in a cart with him but even looking back he had some fascination with marathon runners as a kid.

I know I use to be way into visual arts. I stopped that about 15 years ago. Not RA related, not anything related. I just suddenly stopped not inspired anymore.

Then I look at another friend who you can see the ravages of MS on her and she and her hubby are huge motorcycle fans and guess where she is now that she can't drive her own Harley? In a side car of her hubby's!

I know my Dad after his heart attack wouldn't travel the states in sporting clay shoots. LOL Then after about 5 years he did the ones located in towns next to big hospitals. Now after 10 years he's back doing the full circuit.

I think the things we love we find a way to still be a part of no matter what. It just takes time to figure out how.

I know the feeling. Before this crap hit me, my life was great!! Not a pain ever. I am a nurse, work full time, married with 2 kids. Never a moment to rest. Now, I struggle just to get through the day. I get anxious about what my life will be like. I am only 40!!! I am trying to not be so rushed and just do what I can do. Trying to not worry about what I can't get done. By now, my flowers and yard work was pretty much done, but I just can't do as much as quickly. It is a learning process for me to have to slow down. I think we all have to learn to do the best we can without feeling bad about not doing it the way we used to. Good luck to you. Erica