I'm not sure if it's just me, but i think it is easier to love (and when i say love, i mean sacrifice and serve another person) a complete stranger then to love a family member (certian family members). It's easier to give money and help a complete stranger (well at least for me anyway) then to help your brother or sister who is in a tough finacial spot, or who is need in of grace and a friend.
I think it's because with family we feel obligated to help them, but with strangers we are making the choice to love and help. And in making the choice it empowers us... but with family the feelings of the obligation are more of a burden. Maybe it's because we've been wounded by family, and we fear being wounded again, so a total stranger seems like a safer bet. Maybe we have more hope for someone else...
I struggle with these emotions. Feeling like maybe my time and impact can make a BIGGER difference then where it is currently being used, with someone else who may apperciate it more. I like to feel useful and when i just feel like i am being used and not useful i start to get resentful.
Just something i am struggling with right now considering my current situation with caring for a certian family.
Also in dealing with a situation where a person has mental health issues, how do you gracefull help that person understand that they do not function on a level that is considered normal and does need day to day help doing tasks that typical people can handle with ease? I'm not sure how to gracefully go about this subject... And I know that i brought up a situation that upset said person, but it was brought up as an example of how functioning within relationships is a struggle and help is needed.
I have a desire of always wanting people to feel safe and loved, but at the same time i have a desire to see people recognize their weakness and grow and learn how to function within them.
It's about finding that balance and I'm just not sure of it right now... again with the desire to have people comfortable but also the desire for growth. hmmmm
Anyway.. sorry if that is jumbled.. i just had to put some words out into the void to help me process and depeel...
2 comments:
I love your posts. You nail a variety of topics that have been on my mind a time or two now and then. Thanks for doing it so well.
I'm looking forward to your mom leaving town (major LOL) just so I can see you!!
Bring it!!
I know what you mean about strangers vs. family, especially the "in-law" side...but God knows what I need more than I do. I'm thankful for you're heart, Kristin, and you're doing great. :)
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