Compassionate Love: Displaying compassion for those who struggle with mental illness   Nancy Virden (c)2013

She stretched her legs and groaned. What a long weekend it had been – working overtime, preparing for a relative’s visit, and then the eight-hour drive.

She was a little sad because a significant person in her life was struggling in a nursing facility, far from his younger, more productive self. There was family she would not see these holiday weeks due to distance of both miles and hearts. Sighing, she wondered if anything would ever be happy as it seems for other people.

Then she remembered to count her blessings. It was Thanksgiving, after all. In going over her week’s memories she found numerous positive elements for which to be grateful.

• She has legs that work and can be stretched without pain.
• Her weekend had been productive in important ways.
• She has a job.
• She has two relatives excited to see her.
• Her car did not break down, and the weather was cooperative as she drove.
• The person in the nursing home kissed her hand and thanked her for coming.
• There was family she could contact via email or phone.
• She has friends, community, and a nice living space to relax.
• She was warm, had plenty to eat and drink, and could sleep on a comfortable bed.

By the time she arrived at this point in the list, she knew she could not grumble. Not today. And perhaps it would never be necessary to be dissatisfied if she will just remember all that she has not lost.

God bless you all,

Happy Thanksgiving!

Nancy

****************

NOTE: I am not a trained or licensed mental health professional. I am not a doctor. I speak only from my experiences with and observations of mental illness. In no way is this website intended to substitute for professional mental health care.

If you are struggling emotionally today or feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Hope and help can be yours.