I have had many illnesses over the years. Most are caused by my diabetes. They have necessitated many doctors’ appointments, hospital visits and procedures. Frankly, it is a big pain in the butt. It would be quite easy to be bitter and angry over the whole thing. I’m writing about this subject because I overheard a conversation between another patient and a nurse. The patient was very mean to the nurse and was blaming her for all the things this patient had to do and felt they were put out by it all. I wanted to scream “Get over it!” The nurse did not cause your plight in life. Everyone has something that is exceedingly difficult, and they must deal with it. Yes. Some are much harder than others, but if you approach it with an attitude of “ok this is hard but it’s part of my life and I will find the best way to deal with it.” then you will be much happier and believe me, everyone around you will be happier too. An example: I do not like to go to one of my doctor’s. It’s a long drive, the parking is horrible, and this particular doctor is a little hard on me (as he should be). However, each time I make the trek to that doctor, I stop on my way home to get something I normally am so careful not to get. It might be a fancy coffee or a sandwich from a great sandwich place that is only near that doctor’s office. I can look forward to that special treat instead of dreading the appointment. Another thing that helps is to look at all the good stuff in my life. Everyone can hold onto something positive if they think about it.
AMEN sister! Everyone is going through something. It doesn’t take much energy to smile and be kind to others. Something I’ve been trying to be better at is smiling and maybe even saying hello to people in the grocery store. Some people think I’m weird but most people smile and seem just a little happier.
Thanks. It is nice when a complete stranger acknowledges me when I’m out and about. You are right in that people may be going through something really hard and you can’t tell from how they look. A smile or a nod may be the only “light” they get that day.
I love this, yes everyone is dealing with something. It takes nothing to show a little kindness and heart and you’re better for it.