News Flash: Have You Noticed that Life is Not Always About You?
Going Beyond a Me, Myself and I Attitude
I seem to learn a lot of life's lessons from people I see or meet at the local gym of which I am a member. My purpose is to go there, work out and be on with the next chapter of my day. This particular day was no exception.
But wait!! Is someone calling my name? Yes, I can hear it clearly now. It's Sarah over there going through her own routine. As I approach her we exchange polite pleasantries. Usually she has an upbeat persona about herself. Something isn't quite right. A few moments elapsed in silence as I proceeded to continue my work out. The piece of equipment I was going to use was right next to her.
Sarah then told me of the passing of her older brother a few days earlier. Now I understood why her normal greeting was not as perky. She began sharing the details leading to his death. She wanted me to know because she said we were sisters in Christ of which I gave a resounding Amen.
After she shared this with me, I felt compelled to share with her of my older brother who had died many years ago. It was a bond, sad as it was. I waited as she told of how her elderly parents were coping with their new-found grief. She was distraught with concern over them.
Twenty five minutes later the conversation concluded. I assured her that I would be praying for her and her family. I then reached out to give her a much-needed hug.The sweat that our bodies had generated during our vigorous workout didn't seem to matter to either of us.
When I think back on that incident it is just another reminder that life isn't always about me, myself and I. All too often we get caught up in our own agendas and become enslaved to our "to-do-lists" that we sometimes miss out on being a listening ear to a hurting heart. I know I've been guilty of that. How about you?
Is there someone that might need your listening ear today? If so, I hope you will take the time to reach out in support and care. After all, life isn't always about you, or at least it shouldn't be.
SOURCE:
Personal experience
But wait!! Is someone calling my name? Yes, I can hear it clearly now. It's Sarah over there going through her own routine. As I approach her we exchange polite pleasantries. Usually she has an upbeat persona about herself. Something isn't quite right. A few moments elapsed in silence as I proceeded to continue my work out. The piece of equipment I was going to use was right next to her.
Sarah then told me of the passing of her older brother a few days earlier. Now I understood why her normal greeting was not as perky. She began sharing the details leading to his death. She wanted me to know because she said we were sisters in Christ of which I gave a resounding Amen.
After she shared this with me, I felt compelled to share with her of my older brother who had died many years ago. It was a bond, sad as it was. I waited as she told of how her elderly parents were coping with their new-found grief. She was distraught with concern over them.
Twenty five minutes later the conversation concluded. I assured her that I would be praying for her and her family. I then reached out to give her a much-needed hug.The sweat that our bodies had generated during our vigorous workout didn't seem to matter to either of us.
When I think back on that incident it is just another reminder that life isn't always about me, myself and I. All too often we get caught up in our own agendas and become enslaved to our "to-do-lists" that we sometimes miss out on being a listening ear to a hurting heart. I know I've been guilty of that. How about you?
Is there someone that might need your listening ear today? If so, I hope you will take the time to reach out in support and care. After all, life isn't always about you, or at least it shouldn't be.
SOURCE:
Personal experience
Published by Lee Hansen
I am a woman who enjoys the simple things in life. My parents raised 10 children. I have an Associate Degree in Medical Office Assisting as well as a Bachelor's Degree in Biblical Education. View profile
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28 Comments
Post a CommentWhen I see more and more giving excuses that they have no time for niceties, I really feel for those who look out for comforting words while in distress. We should never forget that we also change over the years with age and circumstances. We are after all part of society - siva
Great title and you made your point well. Good job!
excellent:)
Nice job on this Laura Everly
As usual, Lee, you're right on top of it! Great reminder.
Very true, Lee, I know I need to slow down a bit and listen more. I lost my older brother years ago too.
wonderful writing:)
Excellent post and a great reminder. Thanks for sharing (:
Loved this! I am sorry I have not been on Yahoo much lately. I love all your writings!
You are awesome Lee!!