Why “Rude Awakenings”? Well, as anyone with RA can tell you, mornings are notoriously tough. We wake up stiff, swollen, and sometimes, completely unable to move. It generally takes me 3 hours to feel as limber as I will for the day.
Since I have a six year old son, a full-time job, and an active dog, it’s not realistic for me to lie in bed until 9 or 10 (though believe me, I take advantage of that opportunity whenever it arises). So, I’ve found another way to start my mornings. I often set my alarm hours before I need to start my day. Trust me, this is a big deal given that I’m the farthest thing from a “morning person”. While I wait for my body to catch up to me, I meditate. I spend the time breathing deeply and focusing on three blessings in my life. It’s turned the rudeness my body delivers in the morning into a daily renewal of my spirit.
Meditation is certainly known to be a beneficial exercise, and is something that many people engage in, so it’s funny that I found my way into a regular practice through illness. I guess discovery often works that way, so I’m trying to keep the lesson to apply elsewhere. Positive things can arise from any situation – sometimes we just have to look a bit deeper to find them.
Rude Awakenings: Life with Rheumatoid Arthritis 
What a great idea! You’ve always been such a great writer and this will make it possible for more people to learn about RA and what we can do to help. I hope you can continue to successfully manage your illness and learn more about how you can continue to enjoy the activities you love to do:)
Thank you Shari!!! 🙂
I’m so glad you decided to take this step Jessica – to share your life with RA. My aunt had RA since I was very young and I never completely understood how much of a daily struggle it can be to live with this disease until you made me aware. I’m always in awe of your many accomplishments – and will be on here to remind you of that regularly!
Thanks so much Heather — I really appreciate your support and encouragement!!! 🙂
Hi Jessica, you really do not cease to amaze me…(not surprise me, mind you, but amaze me) Congratulations on starting the blog; this will provide a foundation to help, encourage, educate & inspire so many. As you know, Jessica, you have so many people cheering for you, from so many different parts of your world. I’m learning a lot about RA, from you, and I find myself now talking about it with others to educate them as well. So it will have a ripple effect for sure! KEEP AT IT! I love that you are putting yourself out there; because I am convinced that it’s this generous spirit you have, which will come back and support you in ways you never anticipated… Plus, we know there will be those who need to hear YOUR interpretation & take on it; and you will be helping others out there…GOOD LUCK my friend & know I’ll always be rooting for you…always. xo
Thanks so much Barrie! 🙂 It means a ton to know that it’s helping, and I appreciate that you’re sharing my story and helping spread the word. I’m so grateful for your support and friendship. I cannot think of a more positive cheerleader to have in my corner! xo