Wednesday, April 29, 2015

MENTION THE UNMENTIONABLE

     There has been a recent trend, particularly among psychologists, in discussing and writing about death.  Rather than being seen as a morbid development, the admission of death is actually considered rather healthy, AND practical.
     On the personal level, one can remove death from the list of unmentionable topics by talking openly and frankly about funeral plans and making a Will.  Including your family and loved ones in such a discussion will ultimately do more to prevent pain and anguish than any discomfort saved by leaving them in the dark
     Naturally, if you are married you should consult with your spouse.  The same applies if you are a single adult living with a friend.  You might be startled to find out that he or she often thought about the subject but was afraid to mention it to you for fear of being thought insensitive.

Tuesday, April 21, 2015

IMPOTANCE OF PLANNING

     Often one works for a lifetime, makes countless sacrifices, and does a great deal of plannng in order to provide financial security for one's heirs.  On the other hand, often too little time and thught is spent on other considerations involving one's survivors.
     What should be done in the event of one's death is of primary importance.  It is a difficult enough time for the spouse and close relatives without having to make decisions regarding your wishes - particularly if these have never been expressed.  Discuss the subject openly and, better yet, include your wishes in written form (called Letter of Instruction).
     Plan ahead concerning other matters as well.  Should the survivor stay where he or she is and live alone?  Would it be better to move in with grown children, another relative, a friend, a retirement community?  Unless this type of question is explored and answered, one has not fully provided for one's survivors.

Friday, April 17, 2015

HELPFUL THOUGHTS

     You may never get over grieving, but you can get through it.  The best therapy for grief and loneliness is loving relationships with others.  In fact, one of the antidotes for loneliness is people.
     It is not what happens to you but what you do about it that determines the outcome.  Human beings can alter their lives by altering their attitudes.  People are lonely because they build walls instead of bridges.  Loneliness can never be overcome by inactivity.
     Healing takes time. No matter how hard you try, no matter how firmly you believe, no matter how sincerely you pray - it takes time.  Grief is the price tag we find on the package of love.
     Learn to manage your grief or it will manage you.  If you keep looking back at the door of sorrow, you will miss the doors ahead which may offer happiness and fulfillment.  Try it - maybe something good will happen.  T it - maybe something bad will happen.  Don't try it - nothing will happen.