As many of us are wrapping up a long holiday weekend celebrating America’s independence, it’s a good time to reflect on what “independence” means for many. While the holiday is meant to celebrate my country’s independence from the colonization of the British, for many the word independence means so many other things.

For those with chronic illness, pain, or conditions, being independent and able to do things unassisted is hugely satisfying, but not always possible. Oftentimes those conditions are “invisible” meaning the individual tries to exert their independence, put on a happy face, and carry on, all the while hiding their pain or condition from the outside world. Try to consider these scenarios when you think of the word, because Independence Day can have different meanings for so many people. Continue reading “10 Things to Inspire You this Month”