Be Patient with Yourself

"People who are grieving often get physically ill—as though their heartsickness takes over their entire being. I know it’s difficult to focus on yourself when the loved one you have lost is foremost in your heart and mind. But, please try. Eat good, healthy food, don’t skip your exercise, get plenty of fresh air. Take long walks. Above all, be patient and gentle with yourself."

Judy Collins - A Peaceful Place
www.guidepostsmag.com


Here I am, one of the statistics. I have read this information about "people who are grieving often get physically ill." I guess all the caregiving, events and illness leading up to my Mother's death and responsibilities after her death took their toll on my body. I have been sick for eleven days now with what the doctor diagnosed as Bacterial Broncitis; in bed, headache, cough, chest pain, sore throat, sleeping all the time, sick. Supposedly it is going to take a long time to get over this sickness.

It has been difficult for me to even look at the computer screen. Too tired. I'm still having headaches. One day I tried to find some peace quote that fit the situation I was living. When I couldn't find any peace quotes about being sick, in a short time frame, I stopped trying and went back to sleep. I know "this too will pass." I will be glad when it passes.

I am thankful that Al took care of me for a week. I am thankful that I didn't have to go to a day job. I could not have done it. I pray for all those people in the world that are working through their grief and physical illness at the same time. I look forward to the time when I can get back to walks, exercise and fresh air at the beach. I am trying to be patient with myself.

Photo: Pati & Simon on Lighthouse Beach 9/15/07