God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change,
though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea;
though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble with its tumult. Psalm 46:1-3 NRSV
The day started out at 78 degrees and went to 93 with a heat index of 102 within a few hours. Many of us in the mid-section of the United States are facing oppressive heat and humidity. I am aware that there are many people who live in places in the world where such temperatures are normal. Where I live, these temps are extreme-- and they can have an extreme effect.
In the post "New Normal" I talked about how people with long-term illnesses often face daily challenges which become part of their routine, but that others' may find to be extreme. I would dare to say that people living with Chronic mental and/or physical illnesses are not weak or stupid, we are not lazy or cowards. In fact, I have found for the most part that people who live with long-term illnesses are resilient, creative, determined, courageous, extremely strong people. It often takes a LOT for someone with long-term illness to call "uncle" and have to bow out of something, or share that they are in pain, or...as I had to today...lay on the floor so they don't pass out.
If there's something I'd like those without chronic illnesses to understand it is this- when we say the heat is bothering us, it doesn't just mean we're hot. When cold, or pain, or depression or fatigue is getting to us, it's not the normal scale that the rest of the world talks about. We're talking extremes. We'd likely take the 'normal scale' in a heartbeat and consider it a good day.
When we share with you that the heat is getting to us, or that we're in pain, or that we're depressed, please listen with careful ears, and find out what we need. Often, in order to continue to be determined, courageous and strong, we've had to power through really rough times, and for some (not all) of us, it can be a matter of pride to not give in, even when our bodies or spirits are really hurting. Some of the extremes can also be dangerous, and for us to make the safe choices we need, it may mean we cannot do what we would normally do-- or even what we want to do. Having understanding, respectful support can make a big difference in helping us do what our bodies and minds need.
I've already shared some of my 'extremes'-- heat being the most dangerous right now. We don't all share the same extremes, either. While I find grey winter days to be energizing and wonderful (because they are the opposite of THIS weather), they can be dark and painful days for folks with Seasonal Affective Disorder. The fireworks that some choose to use on the 4th of July can be a serious trigger for some of the people who have secured our freedom, and who live with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Reaching and stretching is not a problem for some, but is impossible for others... and the list goes on.
We are individuals and the specifics differ, but whether we have long-term illness or we are relatively healthy, young, old, male, female we all will face extreme circumstances in our life in one way or another. The Psalmist echoes this experience in Psalm 46- God is our very present help in times of trouble. Whether the earth changes, the mountains fall or the sea roars, no matter what extreme within or without, God is our very present help. Very. Present. Help.
What extremes are difficult for you? I'd really appreciate hearing whatever you're comfortable sharing either in a post in the comments, or email me. The more we can learn from each other, the more we can support, care for and pray for each other. Stay cool, and remember God is very present to help no matter what you are facing.
Lord God, you are our refuge and strength. Whether we are facing the typical, daily struggles and joys, or we are facing extreme circumstances, help us to know you are near. We need you, and we need you near. Amen.
2 comments:
I would simply add, that the comments about being thought weak, or stupid or lazy, etc... are not things that anyone has ever told me to my face. Rather, those things are often the things I fear others will think when I can't do the 'usual' daily things of life...like staying upright.
I am grateful for the loving, supportive people in my life. And I would also admit, that my attitudes toward those with long-term illnesses has dramatically changed the more I have walked this path, and the more I've heard peoples' struggles and stories.
~ Andrea
One thing I deal with is the Seasonal Affective Disorder, so you're right about what those grey days do to me. That's why we went to Texas for internship, and to North Carolina for so many years. I felt wonderful in those states! It's a testament to our love of family that I would venture back into the Cleveland area. I am usually OK for about 4 days without sunshine, but around that 5th day, I can barely do a thing. All thought processes slow, I feel heavy, and the black cloud is crushing. However, there are kind-of-quick fixes for this, thankfully. The special lights do make a difference! I use the Ott light when it's really bad. With Zach having POTS, there are seldom such quick fixes. He just has to wait out the symptoms, and that can either take hours or sometimes days.
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