True Bravery and Inner Strength for Chronic Pain Warriors facing stormy weather

Often people experiencing persistent pain will bravely share their personal stories on social media. Most likely someone will comment with"be brave" "hang in there", "you got this" or "stay strong". There is nothing wrong with these comments, the intent is purely inspirational and motivational. I'm guilty myself of having posted these exact comments on a support group I am part of (for CSF leakers), trying to uplift a fellow chronic pain warrior.

So I thought it's time I should expand on what true bravery and inner strength really is, in the face of adversity.

Firstly I can tell you what it is not: suffering in silence, putting on a brave face, trying to do it all yourself and hiding behind a fake smile.