This has been a rough week for my family. My sister suffered a debilitating stroke. We have been reeling with all kinds of emotions and feelings: shock, sadness, fatigue, worry, fear. Dealing with hospital staff, commotion, and routines is exhausting for everyone. Seeing a loved one in a helpless position is excruciating. I can’t imagine what it must be like for her.
Every night when I got home, I started obsessing about what we were going to do to take care of her-where she would be, what she would be able to do, how fast she would recover.
My husband would hold me and say, “Let’s just take it one day at a time.”
With that reminder, I could take a deep breath, stay in the moment, and realize that worrying about the future didn’t help anyone- not my sister, not my niece, not me. Then I would go to bed and get the rest I needed, so that I could help my sister as much as possible.
“One day at a time” seems to be such a trite saying- so simplistic and over used when you can’t think of anything else to say. However, it really can be so helpful in a moment of overwhelm and anxiety when offered in a loving and caring way.
An opportunity to stop, close your eyes, take a breath, and realize that right in this moment, it’s OK. Tomorrow is another day.
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
Jane Springer is a certified Life, Wellness and Style Coach who assists women in taking care of themselves, in body, mind and spirit. She coaches women who want to lose weight, avoid diabetes, and feel great. She also helps them thrive after divorce. She also helps them to clear their closets of old clothes and outdated attitudes, so they can shine and feel confident.
Hi Jane,
I connected with you briefly a few months ago when I shared that your post about being a Christian Martha Beck coach really resonated with me. My heart and prayers go out to you and your family. Living one day at time served me very well a few years ago when my mom was diagnosed with cancer. Thank you for so generously sharing this reminder in the midst of your own challenging time.
You might already be getting coached. But if you’re not and you feel it it would be helpful to cope with this situation, I’d love to volunteer my services to you. You can reach me at Bonnie.L.Utley@gmail.com if there’s anything I can do to support you.
Blessings,
Bonnie
Thank you, Bonnie. My sister is doing better, but not totally recovered from the stroke. I appreciate your very kind concern and comments. God bless you!