What's the "Purpose" of Fibromyalgia?

According to certain New Age philosophies our souls are put on this Earth to learn and to grow. Each of us has certain life lessons to accomplish, like Scrooge learning to be generous, not just with his money, but with his spirit. This theory also holds that life's trials and tribulations are purposely put in our lives as opportunities for growth. And if we don't get it this time around, we come back again and again until we do.

If that theory is true, then what is the purpose of fibromyalgia in my life? Why do I have pain and brain fog and depression and fatigue? Well, for one thing, I've learned to take better care of myself. I eat healthy foods, exercise regularly and guard my energy. I also learned to appreciate the days that I do feel well and rested.

Photo by David S. Bell, MD

But I think there's something more...something deeper. I think that the purpose of fibromyalgia in my life is to learn to love and accept myself, and that includes being a woman. There was a time that I wished to come back in the next life as a man. I was so tired of the monthly hormonal roller coaster, the fibromyalgia and being treated like a second class citizen in a world literally run by men. I wanted a big dose of testosterone so I could go out and conquer the world without having to worry about how everyone else feels or what everyone else needs.

And so, begins my journey to love and accept myself - female, fibromyalgia and all.