Ep. 59 Hope for the "Least." Part 2 of the Conversation with Luke Thompson

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Living with fibromyalgia affects the mind, body, and spirit. Those with fibromyalgia can feel like the "least of these," often feeling overlooked, invalidated, and in great despair. This series discusses finding meaning in life with Luke Thompson, a philosophy professor and pastor, as he shares wisdom and insights into the problems of pain and suffering. According to Luke, there are different attempts to find meaning in life, but these fall "under the sun," providing limited short-term meaning.  It may be through curiosity and science or through pleasure. This week we discuss the perspective of Neil deGrasse Tyson, the scientist, public speaker, and promoter of science and astronomy, as he gives his answer to the meaning of life. Medical doctors and scientists often don't talk about faith and spirituality with their patients. Still, it affects everybody, and taking a whole-person approach to caring for others includes not only the body but also the mind and faith/spirituality. As the late George Foster Wallace wrote, "everybody worships something."
Luke can be reached through his email, l.george.thompson@gmail.com if you have any questions. You can get a copy of his book here.
Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist interested in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it to even reverse fibromyalgia. He is also the author of the book "Conquering Your Fibromyalgia: Real Answers and Real Solutions for Real Pain. " It is also available on audiobook with Dr. Lenz as the narrator.
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When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.*