When I am thinking about what to blog about each day, I often reflect on what happened today that might share a bit about my heart’s journey. I could write about many topics, but not all of them affect me at a heart level. Often at the end of the day, when I take time to reflect, there are only a handful of things that come to mind that are impacting me at a heart level.
The topic of comparison has come up in a variety of conversations today. As I got my hair done, Stacey and I talked about the tendency to compare grief stories. There is such danger in saying my loss is not as significant as their loss is. Everyone has a unique story, and therefore we are all impacted differently in grief.
I wonder if you minimize your losses over the years or create spaces and rituals to remember and reflect on how your own grief journey has shaped you?
My friend Gayla and I were talking about the temptation to compare fitness
journeys. Some people are motivated to compare or compete with the person alongside them. We believe that comparison actually is an effective form of distraction and likely not beneficial. We are practicing the art of goal setting and making disciplined choices, leaving the comparison card off the table.
I wonder if you can relate to the temptation of evaluating your own progress by way of comparison with someone else? I wonder what goals you have set for yourself for the next six weeks and what steps you have in place to help meet them. If you need a good reason to take a daily walk, get a puppy!
And then, earlier this evening, I was talking with a potential new client. She was distraught because she said it seems like every other wife takes care of their husband and isn’t exhausted. I kindly and gently pointed out that this journey was hers, and comparing it to every other wife isn’t beneficial to her. I did also let her know that I know lots of caregivers, both husbands, and wives who feel weary at the end of a day. I understood why she was tired. She was giving her all to the man she loves and still caring for her own physical and emotional needs, tending to the house, navigating the Dr’s appointments, and anticipating grief as her husband is ready for hospice. She had every right to be physically tired and soul tired. I really hope she heard me say, I hear you and I understand.
Tonight I hope and pray that we can all focus on our own hearts’ call and conviction. May we be faithful in the tasks that are before us each day. May we love with abundance, offer grace to others and ourselves and put an end to the beast of comparison.