If you search for vestibular disorders on WebMD, you’ll find plenty of information. However, unless you or someone close to you is among the 1% with vestibular migraines or the 0.4% with Meniere’s Disease, these conditions may be unfamiliar to you.

Despite being relatively unknown or misunderstood, vestibular disorders have a profound impact on quality of life.

Recently, a friend posted pictures on Facebook from their stopover at a serene, deserted beach in the Caribbean. The images were breathtaking, with crystal blue water, calm seas, and full sunshine, evoking such peacefulness that I could imagine myself there with my toes in the sand. I love having a glimpse into their lives as they live and travel on their sailboat.

I love Marvel! Not just the recent movies, but also the comics and animated series from my early childhood. I appreciate the character development and relationships, but my favorite part is learning the origin stories of the characters and how they became who they are.

This has me reflecting on the origin stories of relationships in my life. I have found it easy to forget how they began once a person has become interwoven in the fabric of my life.

Have you ever found yourself in church, listening to a sermon, and your thoughts drift away? I am sure we have all been there — writing notes to stay focused, fidgeting to calm nerves, or perhaps struggling to stay awake due to a lack of sleep. That is where I found myself on this Sunday, and adding to my distraction were thoughts of a recent discussion with my physician. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis so am no stranger to difficult medical conversations, but discussing the future need for a knee replacement at age 47 had been a shock and was weighing on my mind.

Chronic pain and illness have been part of my life for the better part of the last 30 years, but the past year has been marked by some of the most difficult challenges and I now find myself in a time of sorrow with the loss of ability and sense of community. It has come with isolation and time away from everyday tasks that have been a source of joy in the past and yet have taught me a deeper reliance on God and faith in His promises.