What Does It Mean To You?

Lately I’ve been playing around with a question. What is “quality of life” despite a chronic illness, visible or invisible disability?

Let me start by saying that I believe “quality of life” is subjective. Each of us has our own unique idea of what it means to us personally. Each one of us has certain values, perspectives and experiences that help mold that idea of what a quality of life means to us.

BUT… How would we know it when we had it? Or would we still be looking at the other side of the grass, clinging to the idea of something better?

Many of us are stuck in the habit of looking outside ourselves for satisfaction. We cling to our expectations and ideas about what something is supposed to look like, result in, or what the experience should feel like based on what we see in the media.

But I’ve been asking, “What would quality of life look like, smell like, taste like, sound like, feel like to me as an individual? As someone who lives every day with limitations in how I’m able to interact with the world, and challenges in my daily health?”

I believe we can improve the quality of our lives, even if we live with a disability; whether its’ visible or invisible. We may have lifelong boundaries we need to accommodate, but we don’t need to suffer. And to me having a higher quality of life means I am not suffering, even if I struggle from time to time during the day.

To me a quality life means a simplified life, a connection with nature, a connection with our authentic Self and Universal Intelligence.

It’s about connections with people who are genuine, heart-centered, open-minded, a good listener and conversationalist. I truly enjoy the art of connecting through conversation that goes beyond the surface.

It’s about experiences that are meaningful, and positive. Laughter, joy and mindfully being present to the little moments many of us take for granted.

What are some characteristics of a QUALITY Life to you?