MRI results this week showed further deterioration in my spine beyond the areas where I had surgery a few years ago. This explains the increasing and extended pain I’ve been experiencing in my neck, back and head. While certainly not the news I wanted, I’m deeply appreciative of the ongoing support of my wife Megan, family, friends, work colleagues and health professionals. 

As I walked out of my pain specialist’s rooms this week, there was the immediate temptation to invite myself to “a self-pity party”. But I’ve learned there is nothing life giving attending such spiralling parties. Rather, it was good to breathe in and remind myself of the Good Shepherd who promises to walk with us through life’s valleys and the circumstances we can’t control. 

Pain keeps teaching me more and more about perspective.

I’m reminded today that I’m not facing chemo, I’m not about to lose my farm and liviehood in drought-stricken country Victoria, I haven’t lost a child, I don’t live in Gaza. I’m not subject to systemic racism and injustice. I’m not hungry or homeless. And I can access and afford quality health care, including likely more surgery later this year. 

My pain specialist says: “You’re going to be in pain whether you’re busy or doing nothing at all.” So I’m thankful for the opportunity to get on with things and lead a passionate team seeking to make a real difference across the world. 

Joni Eareckson Tada writes: “Perspective is everything when you are facing the challenges of life”.