I thought you might find the following newsletter I received this morning worth reading:
From the
e-zine, 'PAUSE '. Copyright 2009 Patricia Katz, Optimus Consulting.
(877) 728-5289 or www.patkatz.com.
REFLECTION:
Many of you are smack dab in the busiest years of your lives - with work, family and community obligations filling your hours and days. In mid-life when you find yourself trapped in the midst of the busyness, it can be a challenge to reach out for help.
A couple of years ago, I dropped in for a visit with my dear Aunt Eileen. At over 80 years (or at any age for that matter) Eileen was one of the most loving, supportive and accepting individuals I've ever known. By that time in her life, she had lost her husband, faced several health challenges, and after a lifetime away, relocated to her home province. Here she was surrounded by family, but short on friends. In a word, she was lonely.
As we shared a cup of coffee that day, she read my face and asked, "What's wrong?" Although I hadn't intended to burden her with my woes, it wasn't long before I found myself spilling all. She listened with care, commiserated, and offered a positive perspective on how things might unfold for the best. It lifted my heart considerably.
As we hugged goodbye at the door, I expressed my appreciation for her ear and shoulder. Her reply? "Thanks for sharing your problems. It made me feel useful."
ACTION:
I've thought a lot about that exchange.
It seems to me that in shielding others from the tough truths of our lives, we rob ourselves of a chance to receive the kind of genuine support and caring that could lift our spirits and give us strength to carry on.
We also rob those around us (friends, family and colleagues) of the opportunity to act from their best selves - to play an important and supportive mentoring role in our lives.
It's these kind of honest exchanges that cement relationships and build community. In times of stress and challenge, what could be better than that?
With whom might you share the truths of your life today?
How great is that Christine and so very true. Loved the message. Just won't be spilling it on my blog, he he.
ReplyDeleteLilly, yes, how often do you get to hear that it's good to dump on family and friends!
ReplyDeleteHey Christine
ReplyDeleteI have an aunt that is like that also. I can spill it out to her and she is just a wonderful shoulder with great advice!
mom, you're lucky to have an aunt like that who must really care. I really do think twice before I unburden on people.
ReplyDeleteThis is a very interesting message. Thanks for sharing it with us today! It's nice to have friends and relatives who can listen without judgement.
ReplyDelete