I am…pain.

I am strong, until I’m not,
I am cold but my joints burn hot.

I am happy, on the surface,
I am not fit but for what purpose?

I can love, but not myself,
Not yet dying but don’t have my health.

I am travelling but in one direction,
Followed by shadows, devoid of reflection.

Short on temper but long for peace,
My body grows heavy, my struggle will cease.

I will give and it will take,
Despite the fight, it still aches.

Always waiting but don’t have the time,
And if you ask, I’ll say I’m fine.

A little twenty minute ditty. I promise to start spending some proper time and thought on these soon.

I work best when I write these in the moment, though some might disagree!

Featured image: me after my morning routine of scolding bath, moisturiser, salts, pills, stretches and walks.

About the Author

Joel Nelson

Arthritis blogger, freelance writer and advocate who has had psoriatic-associated Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis from childhood.

Raising awareness and sharing his experiences to help others, Joel specialises in parenting, pain and the mental health impact of living with chronic illness and writes for several leading charities and organisations including Scope, Versus Arthritis and Health Union.

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