A Gift In Itself

 

 

When offering comfort to somebody,

their only real need is to have you

be in the present moment with them.

 

Madyson Taylor

DAILY OM

 

 

We handicap our selves when we think we need to have words of wisdom and exceptional problem solving abilities when a friend or family member struggles.  We self-impose the inference that we are incapable to help for the lack of tools or fear of being too involved.

 

In reality, when a person is suffering, they feel truly alone in their challenge.  They crave the presence of someone to witness the struggle.  No matter how skilled we may be,  a hurting person may need comfort rather than answers.  If we spoon feed resolutions, we are not helping a person  find their way.  They need their own personal imprint on what to do next.  We do not want to be co-dependent or become responsible for their choices.

 

We can sit by a person's side, quietly listening.  Instead of asking, "What can I do to help," we can kindly offer what we feel we can reasonably do.   We can offer to make phone calls, to straighten the home, pick up some groceries or promise to visit again soon.  Instead of avoiding a person in need, we can drop a card into the mail, deliver some flowers or  bring a batch of favorite cookies.  It is beneficial to visit often and for shorter periods of time. 

 

If we cannot appropriately sit and hug a person, mentally extend love, prayers, and light in hopes of adding to their comfort.  Maintain eye contact with heart felt compassion. Remember, just being present is a gift in itself!