I'm chronically ill so I take one more pill

Something's always hurting, I feel like a burden

I'm optimistic but I'm jaded

I both love my life and I hate it

Searching for a better solution

While "normal" feels like a delusion

Some days it ain't so bad

But some days are the worst I've had

Constantly talking to doctors and nurses

On the drive home I'm shouting my curses

Wishing there was a cure, or that my health was more secure

But I guess that's not what "chronic" stands for.

I'm sad all the time but I still try to smile

Make the most of my moments so it feels worthwhile

When my body needs constant maintaining

I'm sorry for all the complaining

But I'm always too damn exhausted

And don't get me started on how much it's costed

To me, the pain is loud

But it's invisible to the crowd

Try to be grateful - at least I'm alive

But is that enough when you feel like you barely survive?

Pining for silver linings, riding the waves to shore

But "chronic" means there's always more

More tests and more treatments

More bedrest and regrets

More loved ones who walk away

More love for the ones who stay.

I'm lonely and I'm scared

When I'm hit with another flare

But courage don't mean that you feel no fear

Strength is the fact that I'm still here.

Go through familiar motions

I know I've been here before

That's just what the "chronic" stands for.