How Not To Talk to People with Chronic Illness

I have three parishioners with chronic illness. I pray for them. I have anointed one of them with holy oil at their request. I have asked that God would remove this cup from them, but He has not seen fit to do so. One young parishioner who has fought this painful fight for a long time and who has provided an example of  faithfulness and perseverance is the author of this article. This is an insightful article because it resonates with most–if not all–who have been fighting chronic illness for a short or lengthy period of time, but also because it teaches us that discernment in our questions is crucial. Read these not as an opportunity to feel guilt for having asked such questions before, but as an opportunity to relate in some small way to these dear brothers and sisters who suffer this intense journey and still battle constant misunderstanding of their situation.

Now, I can’t speak for everyone who is chronically ill, but these things were said to me, as well as others I know who have suffered. I believe it’s important to speak out on this in hopes that some people can better understand how to handle such situations…15 Things not to say to someone who is chronically ill.