Finding peace with Uncertainty: A Journey Through Fear and Gratitude with Parkinson’s Disease
A recent conversation with a friend facing the uncertainties of Parkinson’s disease prompted a profound reflection on the nature of fear and the power of gratitude. while acknowledging the anxieties that can accompany a diagnosis, one individual shares a journey toward acceptance and a renewed focus on living fully in the present.
The initial reaction to a life-altering diagnosis is often fear. However, after careful consideration, this individual realized that, at this moment, fear doesn’t hold the same power it once did. “There have been times in my life when I knew real fear, but right now, I’m feeling good – positive, grateful, and hopeful,” they shared.
This shift in perspective wasn’t immediate. It was forged through a life lived with intention, exemplified by a bold adventure undertaken early in their marriage. In 1991, they and their husband, John, embarked on a cycling trip through Nepal, a journey that unexpectedly illuminated the difference between perceived and actual dangers.
Yet, even amidst the chaos, the question arose: what was there to truly fear?
Their journey continued to Nagarkot, a 35-kilometer uphill cycle from Kathmandu, promising breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest. The challenging ride was rewarded with stunning vistas of terraced fields, forests, and clear mountain air. Upon arriving, they encountered local children eager to direct them to the only available lodging – a simple guesthouse with a spectacular view.
A dinner excursion to the aptly named “Restaurant at the end of the Universe,” a kilometer away along a narrow mountain path, highlighted the contrast between perceived and actual dangers. Concerned about the darkness, the traveler insisted on bringing a flashlight. “It’s going to be too hard for us to see!” they argued. John countered, “Our eyes will adjust to the dark.What are you afraid of?” The initial response – “Lions? Tigers? Bears?” – revealed a playful, yet genuine, apprehension.
The evening proved to be both tasty and amusing, as they discovered the other patrons were enjoying the effects of locally grown marijuana, their infectious laughter filling the air. Returning to the guesthouse, flashlight in hand, they chuckled about the experience, with John playfully teasing about the fear of the dark.
The following morning, a 5 a.m. wake-up call to witness the sunrise over Everest brought an unexpected revelation. The guesthouse owner, looking weary, shared that he hadn’t slept a wink, kept awake by fighting tigers behind the guesthouse. John’s look of disbelief mirrored the traveler’s own internal reaction: “What the heck?”
Further along their route, they encountered hunters cheerfully proclaiming they were hunting lions. This series of encounters, dubbed “primal fear number two unlocked,” prompted John to repeatedly assure them that a wild animal wouldn’t eat them. Thankfully, the downhill terrain allowed for a swift escape, and they skipped lunch in their haste.
These days, the focus has shifted from dwelling on potential fears to cultivating gratitude. “I don’t think much about what frightens me, but rather what I am grateful for: My husband and family, laughter, and friends are all at the top of the list,” they stated. This positivity, they believe, is the driving force that allows them to navigate the challenges of Parkinson’s disease without succumbing to overwhelming fear – refusing to let the disease “eat me for a midnight snack.”
Disclaimer: Parkinson’s News Today is strictly a news and facts website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Parkinson’s News Today or it’s parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Parkinson’s disease.
