RA infiltrated my body like a sly adversary of war, waking me in the dead of night with scorching fever streaming through my blood; inflamed joints surfaced, swollen in the battle against my own immune system; but the war waging in my body is only a modest scrimmage in the light of the soldiers that fought, and continue to fight, for the life we live today. They faced the horror of gunfire, grenades, death and starvation; they huddled in trenches running with blood,
waiting for the muted step of an enemy compelled to obliterate their existence; and when they returned home, remnants of their life were left behind destroyed by an ego that would never be satisfied. Have I any right to complain of the old lady’s battle within me? I wake to the pain of inflammation in my joints, while hapless survivors wake to phantom pains of limbs they once possessed. My war is trivial compared to the ordeal of the soldiers on the frontlines, travelling to hell and back in order to give us the freedom we have today.
Tonight when old lady RA attacks from the gutters beyond her barricade, I will endure in the face of her inflammation – her insignificant pain will be a reminder of the blessed life I live; and though I may complain over her petty torment, I will be grateful to stand against the marginal difficulty she presents, knowing countries still ravaged by war will continue to struggle to find peace that may never come.
“Lest we forget”.
No Comments
Leave a Comment
The information on this site are stories based on my personal experiences and is not intended for medical advice. All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information. All content is original and owned by the author and shall not be used or duplicated without express and written permission.
If You Like What You See
Some people have inquired if there’s a place to donate on my blog. This is for those who would like to offer extra support for my work and I thank you for this.
A bigger thank you to all my readers who offer ongoing support simply by stopping by for a visit. I enjoy writing and interacting with you.
About me
J.G. Chayko is a writer, actress, and international arthritis advocate who’s been involved in theatre for more than 30 years and has published poetry, fiction, and creative non-fiction.
What a wonderful tribute. And serves to put things in perspective.
Thanks Irma. Every time I suffer with RA, I always remind myself how lucky I am. There are so many that have suffered far worse.
Just beautiful Julia. I have tears in my eyes. I love your writing.
Thanks Alison.