Through Teal Colored Glasses - a Column by Jessica Massengale

Social interaction is necessary, for most of us, to thrive in life. From childhood on, many bonds are formed in school, church, a workplace or social gatherings. Strong connections are forged from similar personality traits and common interests. As time passes, a flower of friendship is watered with good…

New beginnings in life tend to bring a sense of hope and excitement. A new relationship can have a couple swooning over each other for the first few months, then hating each other the next. You can find a new favorite flavor of…

Confidence is defined as a feeling of self-assurance arising from one’s appreciation of their own abilities or qualities. It’s a bright light that shines from within and warms others within your presence. But when your confidence becomes compromised due to unforeseen events, it can be hard to…

Children have a keen sense of awareness and understanding when it comes to those with a disability. They learn quickly, adapt to most situations, are not judgmental, and are openly willing to help those in need. Sometimes they say or do just the right thing to brighten up…

A portion of the human race embodies a longing in its heart to help the disadvantaged. One often can find them donating to charities, volunteering, or lending a hand to close friends and family. It fills their happiness meter to assist those in need. But, it…

As I’ve adapted to a life of chronic illness, key moments have broken my soul. These moments have refocused my view about life by pushing me past the definition of “normal” life circumstances. Scleroderma is constantly re-carving my comfort zone and placing me in situations that strengthen my emotional…

A kaleidoscope of thoughts pass through our minds every second of the day. The unpredictable nature of a disease can change the way we think, rewiring our emotions and feelings in the process. A person with a chronic illness can feel alive and well one day, and…

Facebook recently announced it has reached 2 billion monthly users worldwide. This means that a quarter of the world is using Facebook. Social media has become one of the main platforms of communication for many in this day and age. It is one of the most powerful tools used…

According to the Census Bureau, about 30 million people in the United States walk with a cane, crutch, or wheelchair. What do you do when you see someone with a visible problem? Your eyes are immediately drawn to the source, to whatever’s disturbing the “normal” flow of…

What does the phrase “fighting for my life” mean? Often when someone is going through a struggle, one will hear them say, “I’m fighting for a chance to survive.” Does this mean all the sick people of the world are taking medication by day and karate classes by…