My doctor ran through my symptoms. How’s x? How’s y? And what’s new with z? Standard stuff. And to each one I said I was doing much better these days. Stable. Feeling ok.
So then why do I still feel so limited?
My pain is lessened to the point that I can completely ignore it – as long as I stay within my limitations, of course. No riding a bike or lifting heavy babies.
The nausea is gone. This is the best thing in the world!
My period sucked big time, but that’s over and I won’t have to deal with it again for 2 more months.
Even my fatigue isn’t as bad.
So why can’t I work a full time job? Why can’t I take a really long walk? Why can’t I travel? Why can’t I clean my apartment?
And the answer is, it’s not enough.
I’m feeling so much better than I was a few years ago, but I still have a long way to go. My friends take a walk and I can’t keep up. I have a fun afternoon and need to lie down to rest partway through. I cook dinner, and I’m in pain from standing and fatigued from the activity.
I’m excited for the progress. Really. And also frustrated at my continued limitations.
Will I ever see further improvement? Am I kidding myself if I keep trying?
I don’t know. But it sure beats the alternative: giving up.
There’s no better option. I have to keep trying. And even though it’s not enough, better is still better. And I’ll take it.
Chronic Rants 
This is probably the most frustrating part of being out of a flare or when disease is well managed. Even when things are better they’re still not BETTER. I do hope even the limited relief is helpful and that you are able to enjoy being in less pain and less fatigued. Unfortunately we have to take what we can get, even if it doesn’t seem like enough.
Thanks Ms. Mango! You’re totally right about all of that. And yes, I’m definitely enjoying it while I can! 🙂