Emotional Support Sisters

Recently, I found myself in bed for several days as I battled a cold of some sort (not COVID, I took a test). This was a nasty cold that I did my best to NOT share with those around me. I had fatigue, sore throat, congestion, cough, and general malaise that clearly were caused by some bacteria or virus. And I was relieved. Which I thought was an unusual reaction on my part.

After minimal analysis, I realized the cause of my relief. I play the “Is It Depression Or…” game so consistently that it’s actually a relief to be knocked down by a regular cold virus. I had to play no mental gymnastics to discover the cause of my less-than-stellar functioning. Since I knew what the problem was, I could easily determine a treatment plan: rest, plenty of fluids, medicine to treat the specific symptoms, and patience. Easy-peasy. I was miserable and I knew why. I didn’t have to wonder whether or not I would feel better if I just got up and got going. I didn’t question the desire to isolate myself. I wasn’t tempted to berate myself for being lazy. It was easier to stay in bed and sleep, and I chose the easy option. It was beautiful.

It’s important to be grateful for the little things in life. Incredulously, being sick has somehow found its way into that category.

Update:

I wrote that after being sick for a week.

After a brief reprieve, I was then sick for two more weeks. I took two more at-home COVID tests and those were negative as well. I don’t know what kind of nasty virus or string of viruses it was, but HOLY MOLY it took me down and out for nearly a month.

And you know what? I was still relieved to not have to play the “Is It Depression Or…” game.