If you look away from that one thing that’s weighing you down and towards what really matters, your life can seem very different.

Having an illness that never stops reminding you of what you have lost makes it hard to do that. I was sitting laughing with my children today and for a few minutes, I stopped thinking about anything else.

If you find it nearly impossible to think of different stuff, if you just want an escape from the painful reminders, then seek out something that brings you unrelenting joy. Sit down and make a list of what that might be. Maybe even that will distract you.

The discipline of looking in another direction can take a deal of will power. For me it happens when I stop, turn everything off and look out the window. Nature can be a saving grace. Of course, the One who sent it holds the solution but sometimes that can take time to understand .

So next time your cruel punishment tries to take over your mind, hold tight to your list and be distracted. The good things you have listed may set you free.