The Full Spectrum of Sovereignty

Sovereignty. Yeah, I know how that word sounds.

A year ago, I would've heard it and thought "privileged wellness speak."

But sovereignty isn't about ignoring pain or pretending to be invincible. It's about acknowledging both struggle and growth. It means living with chronic illness and choosing to show up for life. Not by defying your body's limits, but by working with them.

On days when the pain is overwhelming, sovereignty doesn't mean pushing harder—it means choosing how to meet the moment. Sometimes that choice feels dignified. Other times it looks like crying at the trailhead because the pain is excruciating but I'm going anyway.

That gap between the ideal and the reality? That's where sovereignty actually lives. Not in the moments when everything aligns perfectly, but in the messy space where you're making choices with whatever capacity you have.

I'm still learning the difference between responding and just surviving in style. Most days I can't tell which one I'm doing until after the fact.

But that's the work. Making choices in the gap, even when I don't know if they're wise until later.

→ Next: 4.2 - Self-Care: Embracing Imperfection

→ Back: Series Four Landing Page

*Peer reflection, not therapy advice. Your healing journey is uniquely yours.*