Patiently Awakened – A Column by Teresa Wright-Johnson
Teresa I. Wright-Johnson is a Congenital Heart Disease Survivor and a Multiple Sclerosis Warrior. Diagnosed in November of 2014 with MS, Teresa relies on her faith, family and friends. As a person with Chronic Illnesses, Teresa has learned the importance of being both patient in nature and present in each moment. It has also led her to boldly live her truth and walk in her purpose. Teresa’s column will focus on her personal lessons and experiences with MS. Teresa hopes her column will inspire and encourage others to stand in the midst of adversity and to believe that even in the course of illness, we can find greater meaning to our existence and use our light to shine through our darkest hour.
Gratitude is defined as the quality of being thankful; a readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness. By definition, we can infer that, in ... Read more
I can’t believe Thanksgiving is only a few days away. Time truly passes quickly. The holidays are bittersweet for me; I experience both joy and unrest. ... Read more
, Spring has always been my favorite season. There is something about flowers blooming, grass growing and the germination process that invigorates me. Spring reminds me ... Read more
Last week was Invisible Illness Awareness Week, which ran from Oct 14-20. Awareness weeks are designed to bring attention to certain conditions, issues and situations. They ... Read more
Although a smile costs nothing, it can be just what a person needs. Many have encouraged me throughout my life with a smile, thus teaching me ... Read more
We are familiar with the “why me” moments? I reference this often because it is a recurring subject in the lives of people with chronic illness. ... Read more
Our world is chaotic right now. I literally have to disengage from social media and periodically turn off the news just to rejuvenate my spirit and ... Read more
We celebrated my dear friend’s pastoral anniversary on Sunday, and the service was dynamic. Although I do not want to make this column a religious sermon, ... Read more
“The very beating of your heart has meaning and purpose.” This is a quote from Andy Andrews in “The Butterfly Effect.” I have referenced this quote ... Read more
Fatigue. Most people with chronic illness – especially MS — experience this. My energy levels vary from one day to the next. I am tired of ... Read more
The art of writing has been my refuge during some incredibly difficult times. Writing also serves as a vessel to express my joys, life lessons, and ... Read more
My column last week focused on the difficulties of managing the emotions that accompany MS. I sincerely thank you for your responses, stories and words of encouragement. ... Read more
Religion and spirituality are personal, delicate issues for many. Various schools of thought exist, and I haven’t the desire or the ability to deem one more ... Read more
I have had the privilege of watching several children grow into adulthood, and witnessing their transformation has been priceless. I have experienced extreme joy, sorrow, pride, and ... Read more
Support is a crucial component in fighting chronic illness and adversity. Our humanity connects us and we thrive on relationships. Support may come in the form ... Read more
Someone asked me to fully explain the title of my column, “Patiently Awakened.” My column title provides a brief description of what it means to me and ... Read more
Grief is something that we have all experienced. The process is a natural human response to tragedy and loss. It is often cyclical and traumatic. I ... Read more
A couple of weeks ago I wrote a column regarding end-of-life decisions. The reality is that the time will come for every human being. This journey ... Read more
This past week has been uplifting. The sun was out and the weather was enjoyable. Spring has officially arrived, and I was able to get out ... Read more
The dating process is the prerequisite to most serious relationships. We invest a significant amount of time to assess whether we are compatible with the person ... Read more
The past few days have been remarkable in the multiple sclerosis (MS) community, with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approving Ocrevus to treat relapsing ... Read more
Most of us have heard Rachel Platten’s Fight Song. It became an anthem for many people who struggle with illness and adversity. Fight Song has become ... Read more
March is recognized by the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America as MS Awareness Month. Awareness is a vital component of any illness. We must actively engage ... Read more
Time. We all know it is important. Time is defined by the Oxford English Dictionary as “the indefinite continued progress of existence and events in the ... Read more
Have you ever had someone tell you “it could be worse?” They are making a valiant effort to comfort and console you. However, there is not ... Read more
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