Three Beasts
A poem by Kelly Stone Cramer
One late warm autumn day I went for a walk in the thick of the woods. Ignoring my pounding head, I was lured by kin to see their goods. I weaved and bobbed through tree branches from whapping my face. Onwards we walked, me at a begrudging pace. As an avid nature lover this walk broke my heart. Because I met three beasts that day named borrelia, ana, and bart. The walk lasted only a few hours. But when returning back to my life, I had lost all my powers. Western doctors were baffled and in disbelief. I slipped through their cracks and was only left with grief. I was at the lowest of the low. I had lost my ability to think straight while my nerves grinded within; it was a big blow. Then I found a helping hand. Someone who believed me and who could understand. I was Introduced to the Eastern plants that heal. For thousands of years, they evolved to fight against what the beasts wanted to steal. The hope of their aid was welcomed and gentle. But it felt like the time it took to heal was monumental. Now I'm better and grateful for healing from the disease. I'm left forever changed from three beasts that brought me to my knees.
This poem was inspired by my experience of healing from three tickborne diseases. Another creation that was inspired by this experience was my creation of a logbook -- an immensely powerful tool that helped me have a deeper perspective into my condition on a daily basis.
Note to logbook users: I created this easy-to-use logging journal to help anyone with ongoing ailments have a better understanding of themselves and to see at-a-glance how their condition is evolving. In 2021, I contracted three tickborne diseases, and my recovery was long and enigmatic. As a data analyst by day, I had the know-how to log my symptoms and medications to share with (many) doctors. Logging things and charting them out gave me a sense of grounding, which was welcomed while recovering from something incredibly difficult. I wanted to produce something that could be used by anyone. Whether they have technical computer skills or not, I wanted to help others feel the same sense of stability I did when logging symptoms and daily details. Whatever your ailments, I hope you find this useful and valuable. Most importantly, I hope it gives you illumination that might shed light on your particular situation and provide hope within yourself. Find the Recharging Logbook (and other Happiness Recharge books) here.
The best time to give up is NEVER! - Kelly Stone Cramer, Happiness Recharge Author