Tag: support

“Nagatives”

Donna Hutcherson

“ I lift my eyes to the mountains. Where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, Maker of heaven and earth” -PSALM 121:1-2 NIV

In the midst of “normal“ living, thoughts we don’t want to have will intrude upon our minds, often at the most opportune times. Melancholy, fear, disappointment, anger, loneliness, sorrow – negative thoughts – which, left unchecked, would bring us down, mentally and emotionally at first, and physically if we allow them to rule. Often coming in a barrage, these “nagatives” tend to worm their way into our consciousness, trying to grab us by their repetition.

Once you recognize this attack on your mind, it is wise to start your own counterattack with truth – simple and forthright statements that you can repeat at will. “Be still and know that I am God” (Ps. 42:6) gives us direction to quiet ourselves and recognize Who really is in control. Your situation- or that of world events- is NO SURPRISE to God. And He will give you direction if you will only quiet yourself enough to listen. That takes PRACTICE. PRACTICE. PRACTICE. How do you conquer the “mountain” in front of you? One step at a time. Practice listening for the details of that next step. I can’t help thinking that if I were blind, or in the darkness of night in a strange place, that I would listen VERY carefully to the one guiding me through that darkness. We need to practice listening for God’s direction, no matter how or through whom He sends it.

During my study of the brain after Dale’s stroke, I recalled a short and simple video by Dr. Phil Parker that we both had seen on NEUROPLASTICITY, the ability for the brain to change itself. This truth was key in helping Dale to develop new neural pathways, yet we had first learned of it in regard to changing our personal habits. I’ve included a link to this 90-second video below and suggest you watch it. You will be encouraged that you can change your thinking habits and overcome the “nagatives” that you face.

https://youtu.be/tJ93qXXYRpU

Steps to changing your thinking habits:

  • Recognize nagatives.
  • Quiet yourself.
  • Speak aloud simple truths.
  • Listen for the next step.
  • Take that next step.
  • Practice, practice, practice

Get help if needed. You are not alone. Oftentimes we need the support and encouragement of others just to take that next step. Know who’s on your team and ask for help.

Thank you, Father for Your plans for us and for the guidance of Your Holy Spirit (Jeremiah 29:11, John 14:26 ESV)

Casting Crowns “Voice of Truth”
https://youtu.be/enxca57LiVU

Intensive Care (ICU)

Donna Hutcherson

Beloved, let us love one another -I John 4:7 NIV

Having just been made aware of someone in ICU due to several strokes, I wrote them my offer of experience and help. In doing so, it was evident that others would benefit from this information. Glad to share:) I remember those first weeks of learning new medical terminology and how much there was to remember. Most of all right now a patient advocate – spouse, family member, friend – is needed to be the extra set of eyes/ears. Doctors and nurses and staff will come and go, but the advocate will remain the constant, the one who know the patient best, can see the overview as people and medications and therapies and needs change, and speak up on behalf of the patient.

FOR YOUR IMMEDIATE CONSIDERATION:

-Keep your eyes on the Lord; the situation you in which you find yourself is no surprise to Him
    –Slow down and keep things simple – waiting on God for the next step and accepting His peace as you do
    -Keep up with your support system – family, church, friends – so they know how to help/pray. I suggest Caring Bridge (Recommended Sites at right) – the best and simplest way to share info to anyone you want without having to talk too much and field calls/questions.
    -That being said, both patient and advocate need REST – both to survive this and to heal/recover.  The best info I received about rest is that 70% of our brain stimulation comes through the eyes – light and sight. If we COVER our eyes, we then only use 30% of our brain energy and get the best rest.  My husband Dale and I used to keep eye masks handy and put one on regularly, even for 5 minutes, for a “brain break”. Most helpful!
   –Receive help. Simple to state but often not so easy to do. When someone asks how they can help you, have a list ready: sit with patient for 20-30 so advocate can walk about, go outside for fresh air and sunshine(courtyard is wonderful), etc; bring dinner/coffee; do laundry; run errands. Just say YES. There is a time to give and a time to receive. It’s God way of ministering one to another.
    -Find ways to laugh – add humor, tell jokes, watch funny shows, cat videos are a favorite for many!
    -Remember the ministry of touch – hold hands, light massage, comforting pats, skin-to-skin is SO helpful.
    –Fresh air and sunshine for both of you when it is possible to go the the atrium or courtyard
    -Best food for brain healing is fresh food. For a simple, healthy and quick meal supplement, our favorite and healthiest shake, although not fresh food, available even at Publix is ORGAIN – even comes in chocolate! Prepackaged shakes and powder to make your own and mix with other things when you want.
    –Keep a notebook – don’t trust your memory. Write everything down: questions, lists, suggestions, to-do’s, medicines, doctor/staff names   – -Just be present – that’s the best gift, not to be alone in this.

Thank you, Father, for care and caregivers, medical staff and their knowledge, safe and clean hospitals and for Your healing Presence (I am with you always…Matthew 28:20 NIV)

SONG LINK:
Michael W. Smith “I Will Be Here for You”
https://youtu.be/bxGmsh1VuxA