How CRPS has Changed Me

A friend of mine, who has CRPS, and I were talking about losing our former lives and dealing with our new circumstances when she came up with the idea that we should turn it all around.  We should focus on how CRPS has positively impacted our lives; "to let the past make us better not bitter".
So I have begun thinking ... how has CRPS impacted me positively?  The first thing that came to mind is that CRPS has made me more appreciative of the time I have and the activities I am able to do.  I do not take a walk for granted because I am not always able to walk.  I appreciate being able to take a long soak in the bathtub and feeling the warm water soak into my bones.  I appreciate all the small physical things that I am able to do because of the times I am unable to do them because of the pain.
The second thing that came to mind is how CRPS has affected my spiritual life.  I tend to ask more questions, I want to learn more about the Bible and I want to explore the boundaries of my faith.  I have more faith and trust that there is a reason I contracted CRPS.  I trust that Jesus holds me in the palm of his hand and is watching my every move.  I also tend to be kinder and more sympathetic to others.  I used to pay more attention to my own personal wants and needs before those of others but today I find myself more concerned about others and more willing to get involved then I have in the past.
I suppose the third way that CRPS has changed me is that I am more prepared to face my own mortality.  I used to be afraid of death so much so that I once worked in a nursing home.  I find that I am more at peace now that I have arranged my affairs to MY satisfaction.  I have written a will, placed advanced directives with my doctors and with my primary hospital. I have met with Pastor and discussed the type of service I want, what I want the sermon to touch on, the hymns I want sung and the verses I wish to be read.  I have a burial plot and the peace of mind knowing that everything is going to be done the way I want it to be done.
It has been a long journey from diagnosis to today.  I can honestly say that when you stop fighting the changes CRPS brings into your life then you can embrace life and living to the fullest.  So, stiffen your back and your resolve.  CRPS will dramatically change your life, it is inevitable but there are positive as well as negative changes.  Look past all the down sides and focus on the positive; you will be more productive and happy if you do.