The beginning of a brand new chapter:
I guess it’s kind of what this piece In Bloom is really all about… The elephant’s peace, divine wisdom, loyalty, and strength, combined with the lotus’ symbolic meaning of growth amidst the suffering.
Thirteen years ago I was diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis and Myofascial Pain Syndrome. It's pretty wild to think that all of this started 13 years ago - longer in some respects, since I actually had symptoms of illness even when I was only 13 years old. This last decade (and then some) has been very intense, with some moments of true understanding that this illness (or the list of medications I was on) would probably be the death of me -- and most likely an earlier death than I would want. At one point, I remember thinking, "either these diseases or the medications are going to kill me - I need to figure out a different way." And that is when my healing journey began.
Three years ago I officially began my journey to health and wellness. I went vegan, which is great and helped me align my personal values with my consumption, but mostly it was - as some people call it - radical self love (which I know is crazy to say when you’re diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that you’re told has no cure and you’ll have forever). It’s amazing how accepting and embracing yourself for who you are and healing your traumas (or working on them) can improve your overall health drastically. So drastically, in fact, that the diseases that I was positive were going to consume my world for the rest of my life are no longer active in my body.
It has been (and continues to be) an incredible journey, full of twists and turns, euphoric moments and moments of absolute despair -- but I wouldn't change it for the world. I am beyond grateful for everyone who has offered me unconditional love, support, and help along the way (and continue to do so). I am excited to see what the future brings -- pain free and ready to live life to the fullest.
In Bloom. Mixed Media. 30in x 40in.
"Love is the great miracle cure. Loving ourselves works miracles in our lives." -- Louise Hay
Jennifer