In performing the Loving-kindness activity this week, I was able to realize that great joy can be felt in thinking of others and their needs, because I can offer so much for those who are dear in my heart. When we are continually busy in our own schedules and activities, we tend to lose sight of others. I was pleased to be able to think about those in other countries that are less fortunate than I am. I remember this when I begin to feel down so that I can quit sulking in my misery and be reminded of how blessed I really am.
I would recommend that others gain knowledge of loving-kindness so that they too can reach out for optimal human growth and development mentally and spiritually.
During the integral assessment of my life, I realized that I deeply miss being able to spend time with my three chidlren. My job has taken too much time away from them. This has been a struggle that I have been dealing with for a while now. Since school has started that has also taken time away from them. They are onlylittle once. I need to find balance in my interpersonal and my psychospiritual dimensions of human flourishing. In finding balance in these areas, I can strengthen my wellness as well as improve my overall happiness. I can now recognize what area needs developed and need to establish goals to work toward this balance. A personal goal for me would be to prioritize job duties so that they don't interfere with family time. Schedule family outings and time after school to improve one on one time with each of my children at least two days a week.
This assessment will need to be redone every so often to address areas of weakness that need new goals to stay healthy in mind, body, and spirit.
Tracy
Tracy,
ReplyDeleteYou make a great point that we are all so busy and sometimes we forget to think about others. I do not think that this is completely intentional but it just happens. Sometimes I think it is so hard to imagine what it would be like in a different life that is completely different than your own. But I think reaching out with your soul and heart can help you as an individual become not only a better person but also one that is more compassionate to all people no matter their situation; we become less judgmental and more open.
When I was in nursing school before my first child was born I struggled with this same situation and I decided to take a leave. In a way I wish I didn't because I loved my job in Er but I wanted to be with him. Now three more kids later and I am already preparing myself for grad school after this journey. I think that when you find a balance in life school and your journey with your family and yourself seem to be more focused and make sense. It is really hard to leave your little ones but one thing that helps me is to think that I am proving to them that any goal is reachable.
One thing that I have found helpful with my little ones is to workout with them or read while they are outside in the sand box (just so things); otherwise I do all my work when they are asleep which then I lack sleep but it is better them time with them. It is so hard to go to school and be a parent but even in this scenario there can be balance as well.
Just think when you are done with school want you will be able to help your patients with during their journey. Their journey may not be school but can be something else that is a struggle to find balance and you can help them with that.
Thanks for all the great information you have really helped me too see that even in tough times there is still a balance out in the whole scenario; there will always be obstacles one just needs to find ways to get over them.
Melissa Brandt
Tracy
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing how the loving kindness exercise has helped you realize what you can offer to your loved ones. Looking at the world around us can help us to be grateful for every little blessing we have.
Sadly your story of not having enough time with your children is one way too many parents can relate to in our society. You have set a reasonable goal to spend two day with them and I can guess they will be forever grateful. Our children are our most precious gifts and we should enjoy them and build memories.
Robin