It’s only pain,
It is pain only.
Consider where it hurts,
And where it does not.
Even if it is only the inside of an elbow,
Honour and praise the parts of the body
That today are working for you.
It’s only pain.
It is pain only.
Once you have hold of it,
Consider if there is appropriate aid,
Massage, medication, hot baths?
Sometimes a flank attack is useful.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
It’s only pain.
It is pain only.
People generally mean well.
Do not bite off their heads
Because they do not understand pain
Because they offer obvious suggestions
Because they want there to be easy answers.
It’s only pain.
It is pain only.
It hurts, yes, but don’t flinch.
Measure what moves are possible.
Go as slowly and carefully as you like,
Let the moves be yours.
Do not let pain move you.
It’s only pain.
It is pain only.
Everyday tasks flow with it, through it.
Washing, dressing become a dance
With pain as partner,
Make this your dance, slow, graceful,
Breathe carefully.
It’s only pain.
It is pain only.
All it can do is hurt you.
When pain wins you lie hurt, crumpled,
Like a wounded animal, whimpering.
Breathe, move, own what you can,
Make those victories brief ones.
It’s only pain.
It is pain only.
In pain’s defeat, your victory, you
Are yourself, human,
Going about your chosen life,
Where pain is a limitation, certainly,
But only and always pain.
11th Aptil 2006
