International Diabetes Day

Happy International Diabetes Day! Many people wore blue today to show their support for diabetes. I was decked out in about seven different shades of the color, which, despite portraying an epic fashion faux pas, was surprisingly encouraging. In fact, this entire day seemed to brighten my spirits in regard to this disease that I live with every day. Somehow, I felt proud to be a diabetic today. This day was a reminder to me that diabetes isn't a set-back in life. It is a part of my life.

We all have struggles in life, whether it be a disease or a difficult situation that we are being faced with. But I think we could all use a day like International Diabetes Day. A day, not to celebrate the problem, but to celebrate how far we have come. We can look back and appreciate the people that have supported us in our times of hardship. We can be proud of ourselves for continuing on, despite frustrating circumstances.

Today, my family wore blue for me. My teacher wore blue for his diabetic students. My diabetic friends and I made jokes about our mutual disease. It was a day that reminded me that I am proud of my diabetes and that I am so thankful for the countless people around me who help to uphold me during the hard times.

I am also so grateful to my Heavenly Father for His grace. There are so many situations where I do not make the best choices in regard to diabetes and I prefer to put my own selfish desires over the care of my body, His temple. But He is so forgiving and is always willing to give me another chance.


For all of you who are going through a difficult time right now, I encourage you to make your own "Day." A day where you can look at the positives in life; look for the celebrations. I know that sometimes it can be hard to find, but God will always place His blessings in our lives. We might just need to take a day to look a little harder!