I have a friend who is also on disability. In handling stress and our outlook on life, we couldn't be more different. She has the philosophy, "The sky is falling!" and I live by, "There's always another answer.". Whenever something changes in her world that she wasn't expecting, she literally flips out. I, on the other hand, have learned to roll with it and do the next right thing.
Why are we so different? I grew up in twelve step groups like Alateen, Al-Anon, Alcoholics Anonymous and other groups that challenged my stinking thinking. Everything that happened to me wasn't about me. The universe didn't revolve around me. I was part of God's design and plan in this world and it was my responsibility to find out where He wanted me to be and do.
We spend a lot of time together because getting out of the house when you're disabled is good. It's good for the depression and it's good for the exercise. Sometimes it's good to go to stores or take a drive.
- During the past couple of weeks, she had to look for a new medical plan. This has been very upsetting for her. So much so that she's been crying at home, at her therapist's office and been an anxious wreck. I do not fault her for how she feels - she is scared and at the age where what she selects will effect her in the next four years. I offered to help since my brain was working pretty good and I know my help would decrease her stress. What I took on (and I knew this when I offered to help) was hand holding and being the liaison between she and the health rep. I was able to translate into simple words why the plan was good/bad, the concept of not being focused on the premium amount as the deciding factor but the value of the policy as a whole and things like that. Even though stressful events entered my life after the fact, I felt my decision to help my friend was a good choice overall.
- Self Care: When I offer to help someone, I'm going to help them the very best I can. In order to so I have to take personal inventory on every level and be honest with myself:
- Am I mentally able to take on this task?
- Am I physically able to travel?
- Am I in a good place spiritually to hear God's guidance?
- Am I able to verbally communicate in a sensible manner?
- If I can answer, "Yes" to all of these questions, then I can move forward and help someone in need.
Helping someone in need can be draining. I was drained when this task ended yesterday. I was drained because I had about five other draining events happening in my life at the same time. Had this been the only event, I would not have felt depleted.
I love my friend. She is making progress and I am proud of her for that. I believe there will come a day when her belief in herself will be stronger and her outlook on life will not be that of a victim but that of one who has been set free to live in the glorious freedom of Jesus Christ.
All of us have access to His love and freedom from the bondage of Satan.
I gave my whole heart to Jesus in March of 1988.
You can give yours today.
