For Natalie

A few days ago I received a package in the mail from a friend I went to High School with. She lives in another state, but we keep in touch via Facebook and phone. She hasn't been around me since I developed Neuropathy, but I have told her about my pain and how it affects everything else in my life. The package contained hair products I have been wanting to try out, but couldn't justify spending $30 a bottle at this juncture in my life. I had casually mentioned wanting to try out this product (which, of course, is CRUELTY-FREE!!) to Natalie on the phone once, and she remembered and thought enough to make a care package for me and surprise me with it. It's not even my birthday!  I was so excited it was almost silly! To know you're being thought of, particularly when you're going through a rough time, well, there's no better feeling. If you know anything about chronic pain, you know it casts a dark shadow over even the simplest things. It is very difficult to stay positive and you sort of want to retreat into your own little cocoon and hide away. Knowing that someone is in my corner rooting for me is really liberating, particularly since I have several friends who have conveniently disappeared over the years as my activity level has diminished.

So, thank you, Natalie! Thank you for realizing that even though I can't go dancing anymore, even though my 'long walks on the beach' days are long gone, I still want to feel pretty. I'm still a girl. Thank you for remembering I am still a human being.