What do you really need? Comfort or Care

Dealing with the reality of having a stroke, can be very stressful to say the least. Depending upon the physical limitations that you find yourself dealing, your emotions can range from feeling lost and alone, feeling afraid and uncertain of the future , to feeling suicidal. That is why most specialist that deal with stroke victims on a daily bases, suggest that their patient see a councilor or psychiatrist.

But if you are anything like me, I can not afford the extra cost that seeking another professional opinion entails. As result, since my stroke 6 months ago, I have sought other ways to easy my fears and bring myself comfort.

During times of the stress of being a stroke survivor, ask yourself “ What do I really need? Do I need comfort or care?

When you need comfort — you’re craving warmth, pleasure, a break. Treat yourself with sweetness and follow your body’s yearning for “feeling good.” A hot bath! A bear hug from your partner! A square of dark chocolate! For me it is cuddling with my hubby, and when he is not around, I lay down in my favorite chair, cuddle up in the warmth of my favorite soft blanket and listing to soft praise and worship music , and pet my dog or cat which every one decides to climb into my lap.

On the other hand, when you need care — you’re craving self-respect, and reconnection to the things that you used to do that gave you a since of value as a human being. Treat yourself with kindness and honor your strengths and values, you still have them despite that reality of having a stroke. Follow your heart’s yearning for “doing good.” Write in a journal! Share your struggles and victories with another person. Take on a new hobby like painting. Take a walk if you can, but for your own sake, do what every you have to in order to move forward in your life. Do not allow yourself to be swallowed up in self pity. Instead , find a new purpose in your life.

I have been blessed with two grown children. And I have four grandchildren that I home school. Just because I have limited range of motion with my left arm, does not mean that my brain does not work. I still have the ability to teach my grandchildren how to read and write. Personally, I find my value not only in my position as a grandmother, but also as a teacher. I also find my value in my natural ability as a councilor.

Find with in yourself a way to connect with your own natural abilities and HOPE for a future where the reality of having a stroke will no longer matter, will be born with in you. For this place of HOPE, you will be able to see yourself as a person that still has value, despite your physical limitations.