Have you ever been challenged by the series on TV called “Survivors” where individuals choose to put themselves into a challenging environment only to emerge on the “otherside” unscathed having experienced their 15 minutes of fame?
This pales in comparison with people who are thrust into a horrific situation and somehow manage to “survive” or exist in the midst of it finding themselves labeled as a survivor at the “end”.
Of course this supposes that there is an end… I have been following the recent events in the midwest from afar because I’m in China right now and not at home in Iowa. I was so thankful for Facebook and twitter as I continually accessed them to keep up to date with postings from family and friends… but the devastation that happened in people’s lives on that night created even more “survivors”.
Floods, tornadoes, natural disasters, accidents, injuries and disease all create “survivors” but the “events” when they end are not gone. Just as a natural disaster leaves physical devastation behind… so too each and every “disaster” that we face in life leaves behind not only physical but emotional devastation and scars in the wake.
As one who was labeled as a “survivor” after remaining alive following a devastating stroke, I am only too aware of the unseen impact that devastation creates. I would challenge each of you to reach out and make yourselves available at all times for talks, comments, hugs, kisses, a smile or a needed pat on the back. We never truly understand or know what is inside of people around us unless they open up and share. Often I wish I had emotional x-ray vision that would allow me to understand but I have to remain content with this thought…
“God doesn’t ask us for our abilities only our availability!” Are you available?
#1 by rjcomeaux on June 9, 2011 - 9:20 pm
I’m available, but for what? I am a high performing stroke survivor of 31/2 years.
#2 by intlhealth on July 26, 2011 - 3:06 pm
Available to share with others and give of yourself.