Certainly makes you slow down... (hope that everyone really understands my need at this time)

I've been diagnosed with the genetic inflammatory condition A.S. which has many possible secondary conditions of inflammation, of which I have all but one (nice huh?) In 2002, I went to my GP for possible angina issues, and with 16 x-rays, he determined I have costochondritis (inflammation of the cartilage of the rib cage) which is different in patients of A.S. because we have an issue with cartilage hardening to grow over joints, deforming the body & preventing flexion, function & posture. I was given a self-test to compare heart versus rib issues when I'm concerned in distinguishing them, and it turns out that if you press on the chest but the pain lessens, then release and hurts badly, that is your heart. If you press and it hurts equally or a bit more, but it's essentially the same on release, it's your costochondritis. Unfortunately, I spent four hours with worsening symptoms last Wednesday until I needed help determining if my heart was actually in trouble *sigh*

Evidently, my costochrondritis is progressing, and the symptoms are becoming much worse, in part due to Fibromyalgia in the muscles around my cage. This is not great news... And am in the process of screening my heart & other tests, so will have more definitive news soon.

I've become so accustomed to the issues with A.S. that on the whole, I appear both healthy & capable when going about my day, and plan strenuous activities every other day, unless am in relapse. Now I have fear for my future that cannot be ignored, and am desperately hopeful that with work, I can manage what is coming.

I'm not really up to covering the other 'issues' that are going on, LOL! Instead...

How about that Total Lunar Eclipse two nights ago!! *grins* I took the time to honour the Goddess, and observe this celestial event which I consider a reboot for the Moon—when she has reprieve for a few moments from the Sun's rays, separating God from Goddess for her renewal. I wanted the same for myself, and meditated on my opportunity for a new beginning. I divine on eclipses as well, with readings on myself & my relationships (very ironic to be doing Shadow work when the Moon is in Mother Earth's shadow!) I really love my practice. Here is an image of the TLE from downtown Ottawa, Canada: