Today I freaked out. I totally freaked out because I had this HUGE list of things to do, and I didn't know how I was going to get them done. I even gave myself a stomach ache last night just thinking about all of the things I had to do. This morning, the stress was still there, so I started out by making a list. A list always helps me prioritize and get a grip on what exactly I need to get done, and boy does it feel good to check something off! I started out by ordering some Christmas gifts, going through our huge pile of mail, balancing my checkbook, and calling the insurance company and hospital about my outpatient surgery bill.
In the middle of this, I got panicky and upset. This was too much for me to handle, in the middle of directing two more programs, rehearsing for the Christmas Eve service at church, and trying to get Christmas obligations fulfilled...I was too overwhelmed.
It didn't take long, however, for me to realize that I was not the only one in the midst of stress and hardship. A friend of mine's son is having trouble at school. Another friend and his wife are handling a newborn along with four other young children. There are families at school dealing with head lice. A family member is having to downsize due to a job layoff. I heard another Christmas program didn't go so well.
I am so not alone in my quest for peace and my call to God for help during this crazy and sometimes messy season. It's important for me to remember that, as difficult as my situation seems to be, there are so many others whose burdens are heavier.
Next time I start to freak out, I'm going to count my blessings first, and think of ways to help next.
I'm pretty sure things won't be so bad after all.
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