~by Sue

Editor’s note: Since I also struggle with health problems, I appreciated reading some of Sue’s thoughts on trying to face them with faith rather than with self-pity. You’ll want to read the whole post to get the quote and the context, but here’s a snippet from her reflections. Her post makes me think about the woman with the issue of blood, and the different ways those of us who struggle with health issues might reach out to touch the Savior’s garment, as it were, to access  His healing, helping power. We may not always have our trials removed, but His power can give us strength to face the challenges in our lives.

Elder Groberg’s words [see her post] made me realize that I’ve been coming at my health problems from the wrong angle. My approach has been reactive, struggling not to wallow because it feels bad. Instead, I could take a proactive stance, striving for selflessness (and the spiritual gifts, healing, and lack of wallowing that must always accompany any Christ-centered trait). Let’s face it; striving trumpsstruggling every time. It just feels better. Which is why I think I will [block]1[/block] better with a mindset of actively pursuing selflessness as the cure for what ails me rather than reactively flailing against the quagmire of sinking feelings that all too often accompanies chronic health problems. Reframing is a good thing!

- – - – - -

“Healing blessings come in many ways, each suited to our individual needs, as known to Him who loves us best. Sometimes a ‘healing’ cures our illness or lifts our burden. But sometimes we are “healed” by being given strength or understanding or patience to bear the burdens placed upon us.” – Elder Dallin H. Oaks, “He Heals the Heavy Laden“