In this new stage of acceptance, you will feel less encumbered by unpleasant emotions. It isn't that you won't have days when you're angry, sad, or frustrated. These negative emotions are a part of life. But with acceptance comes a greater measure of happiness; you'll feel a sense of moving out of the misery and getting on with your life.

For some people with fibromyalgia, it isn't easy to feel happy. After all, you've lost the ability to do things you enjoy. Your body is wracked with pain. Sleep is elusive, and your days are a foggy blur. On top of it, you're dealing with an endless number of visits to doctors, trying to keep track of numerous medications, and fretting about the course of your illness.

While maintaining a positive outlook isn't easy, it's important to your health. Feeling happy can strengthen your immune system and ensure that you will engage in healthy behaviors that can alleviate your symptoms. Here's how you stay positive when your body feels lousy:

• Steer clear of negative thinking. Look for ways to reframe an event and modify the way you view it.

• Seek out the spiritual. Whether it's organized religion or individual spirituality, putting your faith in a higher power can help you overcome any rough spots you encounter.

• Reach out to others. It's impossible to handle the emotional rigors of illness alone, so spend time with people you care about.

• Try to do something you enjoy every day. Read a book. Go outside and take a walk. Listen to music you enjoy. Giving attention to life's pleasurable experiences will counteract the negative emotions you feel.

The way you choose to pursue happiness is up to you. The key is to do it, even if it doesn't come easily. But when you find yourself immersed in a good book, chuckling through a funny movie, or sharing good conversation with a friend, you'll know that you've achieved happiness, in spite of your pain.