It seems like bad things happen at the worst times possible, physical or financial, just when we have so much planned! Sometimes, we are not just told to cut back a bit and do less, but we feel like we’re been completely shut down from doing anything productive or useful. It’s frustrating, disappointing, disheartening, we get jealous of others who can do or go more, we feel left out, misunderstood, pitied by others, etc.
It feels crummy.
I have learned some gritty lessons from seriously ill patients, as well as others with devastating financial problems, and endless and excessive family/work demands. I even learned a lot from my own experience with a badly broken leg – bedridden, off work, then wheelchair-bound, etc. for several weeks, and experiencing unexpected depression.
One of the things I’ve learned in my chaplaincy visits, when I stop trying to fix their issues, I can hear them better. We can both hear God better too!
When people lose the ability to physically do the things they want, some grow in peace, grace and wisdom – after an initial adjustment period. Priorities get adjusted, humility develops (replacing the POISON of resentment) and perspective changes. In some cases, it’s a relief to have to let go of some things that really are unrealistic even when in full health. Facing and accepting our limitations can be a hard pill to swallow, but it’s unsafe and unhealthy to not receive that medicine.
Time is limited and incredibly valuable – for all of us. That crazy feeling running train of thought for all the things we need (or want) to do seems never ending. When sidelined, quiet down a bit, turn to God and can hear Him better. It helps.
When I visit with people in hospice, they sometimes feel lost, especially unable to do for themselves or others. But listen to them, their thoughts and words are even more precious and frequently filled with wisdom.
Offer the best gift, your time, listen, really hear their heart words. Make time. It matters.
Peace be with your spirit, in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit!
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