Ok, so I know it's dumb, but...

Remember that post I did over on FighterZine? Well there's this lady that has commented twice, and both times she's like "Oh, I wouldn't focus so much on the fibro. Just worry about wedding planning and being happy and forget about it!"

And that makes me feel super invalidated.

Which is dumb, because I know that everyone has a different experience with fibro and other chronic illnesses, and everyone has a different perspective on how to handle situations. I am actively focusing on remembering that and taking it into account. I'm not mad at her or wishing her ill or anything.

I guess I'm just annoyed that, clearly, she didn't read the part where I talked about how I have to use walkers and sticks and stuff, or the part where I was in ridiculous amounts of pain and dealing with mad fatigue. It's like, why would you even comment about that when I'm clearly coming at this from the angle of someone who has to take fibro into account in her daily activities?  Whoopee for you that you don't, but don't hassle me because I have to.

And really? You don't have to take any of the advice you read on the internet. If it doesn't apply to you, then move on. It will apply to someone else, and that's great. Don't poke at me just because it doesn't fit your situation.

Seriously. Anyone with common sense would know that I'm not advocating focusing all of your wedding planning energies on your sickness, just as spending every waking hour thinking about fibro is foolishness. It's depressing. It's draining. It's unhealthy. The intent of the post was to share what I found helpful as I took the fibro into consideration while planning a large event. Did it eclipse my focus? No. And I don't really think that I should have to spell that out.

So this lady just kind of annoyed me, is all. She's not a troll, I don't think. I'm just still so new to writing and dealing with my chronic illnesses that I'm sensitive to all manner of criticism regarding either of those topics... so when I'm criticized about my writing that has to do with my chronic illnesses, it's like a huge Self Conscious Fest in my brain.

Aaaaaaand... I'm over it. Back to packing. :)

2 thoughts:

  • Julie Rose | April 21, 2013 at 6:11 PM

    If it makes you feel any better, I read your post (which I thought was excellent, btw!) and saw her post, and was offended... I was like "Not think about fibro? Oh yeeeaahh.. just ignore it. Mind over matter. Riiiiiiht. Idiot." That's what I thought. If it makes you feel any better. :)

  • Cassandra | April 22, 2013 at 2:18 AM

    Hah. Yes, well, actually that does make me feel better :)

    And honestly? I'm so glad you get it, despite not having gone through it yourself. It's awesome that you have the perspective without the pain. You're a rare breed, Miss Rose :)

    Also, thank you! I happen to think it was an excellent post as well! ;)

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