-by Sandy Johnson, network director of Organization Culture/Called to Care
It’s hard to believe, but fall is here! The light and the shadows are being cast differently. Another season of transition is upon us. You may have had to pull out some fading plants in your yard already. Everything in creation has wisdom about when to hang on and grow, and when to release and rest. Do we?
It seems like what we can count on most is that life is always changing and evolving. Although they can be a source of stress, the changing times can teach us about courage, faith, hope, and what it is to really live our values. Stress is never about what’s happening, but rather it is about the story we tell ourselves about what is happening that determines our responses and choices, how we interact together, and ultimately how we serve others.
Part of being an effective caregiver in health care is the art and skill of knowing what to release and what to hold onto–both in our personal lives and in our work together. This skill is developed through our experiences, through asking reflective questions of our selves and others, and through the courage it takes to hold onto what is needed to move forward, and to release what no longer serves us well.
So, what will you hold onto–and what will you release–this season?