And so I tell you, keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. – Luke 11:9
Communication is key to so many things. When you’re chronically ill, this is even more true. So today I thought we’d talk about some tips for communicating.
First, let’s talk about people you need to be certain you are communicating with regularly.
1. Your friends and family – This is true no matter who you are or what relationships you have in your life. You may not share all things with all people, but open communication can help to either draw you closer to those you love, or give you the information you need when it’s time to begin to distance yourself from those who will cause you stress or toxicity.
2. Your doctors – You should form a partnership with a doctor, any doctor. In order for that to happen, you need to allow yourself to talk even about uncomfortable things openly and honestly. If you feel overwhelmed, keep a list that you take with you or take a friend or family member with you to the appointments.
3. Your prayer warriors – How else will they know how to pray specifically for you unless you tell them the truth about what it is you are facing or are afraid of?
4. God – Prayer, song, tears… all of these are ways that we can reach out for our Father’s hand. We have to. We need to. Pray without ceasing.
Secondly, there are a few rules about communication that you could always keep in mind.
1. When you use generic answers, you cause those who love you to feel like they are not trustworthy enough to share the hard things. You turn them into outsiders, just trying to peek in and be a part of something they would give their right arm to help you carry. Don’t do that, ok? I’m often guilty of this one, and I’m just now beginning to recognize how to change that.
2. Open communication should go both ways. You should be willing to share the hard stuff, but please also be willing to hear it when it needs to be said by others. It can be hard, but you can’t be part of a 3-cord strand any other way.
3. Communication can happen in so many ways. Sometimes it’s a face-to-face chat, sometimes it messaging. Other times, communicating is done through letters or emails. One of the favorite ways I’ve found to communicate is through video. A video can spread awareness and open a little window into your life. Whatever way you choose to communicate, just communicate.
Dear God, thank You for Your Son. Thank You for those who love us. Please give us the courage to share honest communication. In Jesus’ Name, Amen…
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May God Bless You,
Shelly
