Embracing Pain

I chose the title of my diary and description based on how I would like to view the constant chronic pain in my life.  I know that I do not suffer as badly as some, and that I should be grateful.  Sometimes I try to not acknowledge the pain and that makes it worse.  Like today, I have a sinus infection, and any type of physical ailment seems to worsen the FMS.  My left knee has been killing me all morning.  I chose not to ignore my pain today, so I stayed home from work.  I could have worked, but I would have just suffered more, today and later.  It is hard for me to make these conscious choices to take care of myself.  I come from a long line of farmers and hard laborers.  One does not choose not to go to work, unless you are hospitalized or have lost a limb or something.  In the beginning, after I first told my Dad about the FMS, he would ask me every day if I was feeling better.  And, depending on the day, I would answer him.  I sent him some info on the matter, and now he just asks how I am feeling, though he continually tells me that I'll be okay, as though there is an end in sight.  Drives me crazy, but probably makes him feel better as a worried parent.  Today is a somewhat bad day, but there is always tomorrow.