I am saying this with great faith … it appears that at least one of my two auto-immune diseases has gone into remission after two years. Over the last six weeks I have not had any PMR pain, stiffness, or the fatigue from the disease, just the normal “old-age” pain of being almost 75 years old.
What I do have, however, are the lingering effects of the disease and the medication I took (and still take). Apparently, the meds shut down my adrenal glands and they are in rebellion right now refusing to start up again. And also apparently, not moving very much for almost two years because of pain caused my muscle to weaken.
My primary doctor enrolled me in what she calls “Rehab for the Elderly” to regain some muscle strength. My physical therapist laughed when I told him I came for “Rehab for the Elderly.” I suppose unlike “Rehab for the Young,” mine involves adding small steps, regaining my balance, working on weak muscles, all with the disclaimer that I will never be what I was, but I can be a bit better than I am.
I laughed all the way home with my exercise sheets in hand and my goals set. (I looked at him incredulously when he showed me exercises that are done while lying on the floor; he crossed those out!)
The message was clear … I will never be what I was. That is true of my physical condition, and I mourn the loss of strength and stamina. It is also true, however, of my spiritual condition and I rejoice abundantly and daily. I am not what I once was. My sins are forgiven. My God loves me. Thanks to Jesus I am a recipient of God’s grace and that has made me what I am in Him.
“But by God’s grace I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not ineffective.” [1Corinthians 15:10 HCSB]
Thanks to Calvary: Gaither Vocal Band - Thanks to Calvary (I Don't Live Here Anymore) (Live) - Bing video
