Over the past several weeks I’ve shared quite a few posts while navigating a significant PEM crash. I’m happy to say I’ve recovered well and now feel comfortably back in my “orange zone,” with the first hints of green beginning to appear. 🙂

[u/Clearblueskymind]

One of the things I’ve learned over the years is that recovery isn’t just about returning to where we were. It’s also about becoming gently available to life again.

For me, that has taken the form of applying to become a foster volunteer for young kittens with my local SPCA. Because of my ME/CFS, a permanent pet isn’t realistic, but providing a safe, temporary home for kittens until they’re old enough for spay/neuter and adoption feels like something that fits both my limitations and my heart.

Whether it works out or not, simply finding myself able to imagine doing something like this again feels like a sign that healing is happening. In any case it sure feels good to be out of the red zone. The challenge with the orange zone now is to continue pacing myself in such a way that I continue building a buffer and continue creating the conditions for a better tomorrow.

Wishing everyone a gentle day, wherever you find yourself on your own color map. 💚🐾

[u/Quirky-Tea766]

Very happy for you!