Things I Have Learned, Part 2

    -Awhile ago, I wrote about some life
lessons that I have learned over the years. This time, I believe I will just
add to that list.

L have learned that, if you care about somebody, you do something to show
it. Even the Bible mentions not loving in just talk but also in deed. And
then, of course, there is the old saying, "Actions speak louder than words".
I know that, in the past, I have been guilty of it myself. Sometimes, it was
simply not knowing what to do so I would do nothing. Even now that I am a
Christian, it is sometimes easier to think "I will pray" and leave it at
that. I usually do pray but, after a few times, it often slips my mind.
Another problem that I have is that I got so wrapped up in my own misery
that I don't pay attention the hurts of others. That is is so wrong. True, I
am pretty limited in what I can  do to show people I care but I can do
something.
Even if it is just to smile at somebody when I don't feel like smiling. My
point in all this is this. After so many years in hospital, I have learned
the importance of having people show that they care.

I have learned that there are two sides to every story. Over the years, I
have heard a lot of stories, usually about a spouse or some other person. I
have
learned just to listen, and sometimes pray in my mind, and not, usually, to
try to give advice. I have come to understand that the other person has
their side of story and it may be quite different.

Kind of similar is that I have learned that my perspective on what I am
going through is probably quite different from the perspective other people
have of my situation. But what really matters is not my perspective or the
perspective of other people. What matters is God's perspective of my
situation and things will turn out according to His perspective.

I have learned over we never know what another person is going through until
we have gone through the same or very similar circumstances. For example, I
have never had to deal with marriage problems so I have no idea what people
in that situation are going through. I can pray but I really can't give
advice as I can't relate.

I have learned that we really don't know what we would do in somebody
else's situation. We may think we do but it is not until we are in the same
situation that we find out for sure. I will use finances as an example. I am
far from rich but I have plenty for my needs. When I hear of somebody with
financial problems, I may , in my head, know the Biblical principles that
they should employ but, unless I am actually having financial problems, how
do I know
if I would even use them?

I have learned that it is ok to vent once in awhile. Most people need to
"let of steam" on occasion. The main thing, though, is that, once the vent
is over, is to get back on track and "keep on keeping on". Because I can't
talk, venting is not quite so easy for me. But, between speech board and
e-mail, I manage quite well. For me, it is important who I vent to. When I
am already feeling sorry for myself, the last thing I need is somebody to
give me a lot of sympathy. On the other hand, a lot of "pat" answers will
probably just upset me more. One friend will say something stupid and make
me laugh.

These life lessons sound good but I wonder if I will remember them when I
really need them?