If you’re a regular blog reader, you’ve heard me speak or read my books, you know that I don’t tell other people’s stories. I only share my own life experiences and what I’ve learned from them. Since today is Good Friday, a day of reflection, I’m offering “food for thought” from several women’s retreats I’ve been privileged to lead recently at area churches.

For the past 6 weeks I’ve written and posted this blog with my right arm in a sling – quite a challenge since I’m right-handed. I fell and broke my shoulder in two places. After a two-hour surgery I now have a plate and screws in my arm to hold everything together. With 3 more months of physical therapy my therapist says that the ongoing pain is a sign of progress. (I’ll have to take her word for it). But I’m going to be OK.

While at PT or waiting to see my surgeon for follow up visits, I’ve noticed others who are in worse shape than I am. So I start to think, “A broken shoulder isn’t so bad. What do I have to complain about?” Has that ever happened to you? You’re struggling with physical, mental or emotional pain that’s got you down. You’re doing your best to cope when you see someone else who has a bigger problem, a more serious issue … even a life threatening one. You immediately say to yourself, “Well, I thought I had problems, but at least mine aren’t that bad!”

When you learn about someone who’s “worse off” than you, it can change your perspective. You may start to feel guilty for complaining or feeling sorry for yourself. But know this: Just because someone else has a bigger problem doesn’t make your problem less important. It doesn’t make your pain hurt any less. And it doesn’t mean your pain doesn’t count. If you’re going through a tough time, it’s not a sign of weakness to ask for help when you can’t do it alone. God is constantly putting people in our lives to help us. Who are those people in your life?

And don’t forget that the most well-intentioned people are not mind readers. Does this scenario sound familiar? You’re dealing with something really hard, feeling like you’re “hanging on by a thread.” A good friend asks, “How are you doing?” You sigh. You smile. And you answer, “Oh, I’m just fine.” Make sure the person you choose to confide in is someone you trust who will keep your confidence. Those who care about us can’t help if we don’t ask. We must be willing to let down our defenses and let go of the fears, doubts and whatever else is keeping us from getting the help and support we need. Look around. You are not alone. Help can be only a conversation away.

SHARE IT: