For a friend.....

Enjoy when you can and endure when you must.

Johann Wolfgang von Goebe

Have you ever said to yourself, "If I can just get through this week, I will be fine!"

At times, we become so overloaded with work, civic, and family responsibilities it seems nearly impossible to believe it can all be done!

It's during those times we stop and "make a plan" to get things in order  and prioritize. Then, with a fierce determination we soldier on, accomplish the task, and promise that we'll never allow life to get that crazy again!

But what about the times when emergencies arise, when bad things happen, and life seems to go from from bad to worse....you think it can't possibly get any worse....then it does.

If we're not careful, those times of crisis or tragedy can overtake us and cause us to mentally, socially, spiritually, and sometimes physically "shut down". 

It's during those times we have to square our shoulders up, take a deep breath and just keep moving!  The very act of doing SOMETHING helps us endure those things life throws at us!

Doing SOMETHING to actively manage your situation, (instead of letting the situation manage you!)  will help you face the fear that may arise from the very circumstance you are facing.

Doing SOMETHING will help you stay focused on a positive outcome and enable you to pay attention to those around you who may be reaching out to help you.

My challenge for you is this: If life's troubles have brought you down, stop for just a little while.  (You may as well spend a bit of time praying while you're already on your knees!) 

Then...look up!  Look for something to do!  Look for someone who is probably already there, reaching out to help you!

Lastly, when you've made it through the struggle, look around and find someone else who is enduring the same kind of situation and reach out and lend a little encouragement!

Blessings!

Sharon