When pain takes, writing gives something back
Even though my reality is often a lot of sofa sitting/lounging due to my illnesses, it does not stop me from writing. Case in point right now.
Am I brave for writing while in pain?
Nope. I’m actually pretty stupid for doing so as it makes the pain a lot worse.
But the act of writing is worth the extra pain for me, because writing gives me the purpose that my pain tries to take away.
Maybe your version isn’t writing.
Perhaps it’s painting, gardening, studying, drawing or simply showing up to a life when everything feels incredibly heavy.
Whatever your ‘thing’ is, if it gives you meaning, it’s not about being brave or about being reckless. It’s about choosing to hold on to what matters when life tries to take it all away from you.
Purpose doesn’t erase our struggles. But it can carry us through them.
Sandra Postma
Posted on 17 September 2025 on Substack
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