In this episode, we explore what it means to get better. I’ve been thinking a lot about healing and recovery, and what it means to get better. Last month marked my 12 years anniversary of living with debilitating chronic pain, and this past May marked the 3 year anniversary of my most recent and most invasive surgery. When I look back at how I had imagined myself to feel at this stage, I hadn’t been able to see clearly; it was all a blur of grey. I could barely see beyond the initial hospital stay, let alone the long uphill journey of rehabilitation. When I was able to imagine the recovery, I focused my energy on the end game, the final stretch in the marathon. I imagined myself fully restored, and maybe even, if I can say it, healed and full of energy and vitality. The truth is, I don’t feel that way, well at least not yet. And I’m not sure if I’ll ever feel that way, really. Let's talk about how a life with pain isn't just so simple; it isn't good or bad, and it isn't that if we feel better we don't also feel pain. And if we don't feel pain, it doesn't mean that the wisdom of pain disappears. It's deeper and more wild than that.

If you'd like to connect about what you hear on Painiac, suggest a guest, sponsor the show, or make a donation, reach out at www.painiacpodcast.com. Painiac is a labor of love, and is and always will be a free resource for people living with pain. It costs money to produce this show and bring it to you, and I hope you consider making a contribution at www.painiacpodcast.com If everyone who listens donates $1, the show would be funded for a third season. If you can, please help me keep making Painiac. Thank you in advance!---Shelly

THANK YOU TO OUR PODCAST SPONSOR: THE LEMONAYDE APP Lemonayde makes dating and socializing when you live with chronic pain or illness a whole lot easier. Visit www.SupportLemonayde.com to learn more and to support their Kickstarter. Let's help them raise $50,000!