The Anatomy of Hope | CFIDS & Fibromyalgia Self-Help
[COMMENT: The CFIDS and fibromyalgia self-help page has an excellent discussion of unrealistic hope and how it can be damaging, and also how realistic hope combines acceptance with hope and "takes into account the real threats that exist and seeks to navigate the best path around them. To have hope is to "acquire a belief in your ability to have some control over your circumstances."" When a challenge comes up, find a work around. If shopping isn't possible any longer due to MCS reactions, there is no reason to lose hope. It just requires a different approach than was used before the onset of MCS. There are stores that deliver, online shopping, family and friends who may be willing to help, and people who would jump at the chance of a part-time job shopping for a small amount of extra income. Acceptance and hope combined allow problem solving to occur.]
