This is something I would usually post on my anonymous medical blog, but I am too lazy to log in to it right now so I am going to share it here. If you don't want to read it just skip ahead. I want you to know up front that I do not intend in any way to appear negative. If I am sarcastic it's just the way I am. I will try to present myself in a more positive way.
With that said...
I went to the endocrinologist today. It's actually been a few months since I have been in doctors appointments every week. It's been a nice break! Anyway, I always take my "medical binder" with me to appointments. I keep my medical records (the most recent at least) and a list of questions for that appointment in the binder. Today I was brave and just didn't take it. That's right. I left it at home. When I got home I pulled the binder out to file my latest labs away and I saw the quote that I keep on the front:

"For a long time it seemed to me that real life was about to begin, but there was always some obstacle in the way. Something had to be got through first, some unfinished business; time still to be served, a debt to be paid. Then life would begin. At last it dawned on me that these obstacles were my life."

- Bette Howland

When I first read this quote a year and a half ago I was in the middle of a huge breakdown: physically, emotionally and mentally. This has really helped me keep my chin up and try to find the good in each situation. I was amazed at the feelings I had when I read it today. I finally really believe that these obstacles are my life, but I don't look at them as obstacles anymore. They really are blessings. They are opportunities for the tender mercies of the Lord to be shown in my life. I am so grateful for the good health I have received. Yes, there are still so many unanswered questions that I hope to someday find answers to, but for now I am happy getting the help I have received. I have the best doctors and therapists in the world! They are all committed to helping me heal in any way possible. That is a great feeling. I love studying medicine and I cannot wait to have my shoulder surgery and hopefully get back in school so I can start helping others.

I guess that's enough babbling today. It's just nice to look back and see how much my life has been blessed! So many of those blessings come to me because of your friendship. Thank you!!!