How do you give when you can't move? ;)
I have ALWAYS been a giver, the idea of doing that as sacred practice (and to draw attention from one's own problems) is nothing new.
But 29 CONSECUTIVE days is HARD when you have physical challenges. I've read the "simple gives" thread, and I can't even do most of those. 29 days is not a problem, I can think of SOMETHING I can do on my good days. 29 IN A ROW is something else entirely. ;)
Please note, I am not writing this from a place of complaint about what I can or can't do. I know my limits and have accepted them, and they just are a part of Who I Am. I am honestly looking for ideas on how to give when you're so sick you can barely breathe, or sit upright for more than 3 minutes at a time. Or is that just the time to stop? How have you modified this challenge to meet your own physical needs, while still understanding that not always thinking of yourself first is part of the point? How far can or should you push yourself to give? I do it when I can, but if I have to drag myself out of bed and literally crawl across the floor in order to give something (which is usually very small anyway, like a comment on a forum ;), to keep in the 29 days limit, I feel so horrible afterwards that it seems to negate the point.
Any ideas? Thoughts? Am I missing something? Can I blame brain fog if I am? ;)
Tags: challenges, chronic, illness, physical
Replies to This Discussion
-
Permalink Reply by Ann on -
You gave me a wonderful gift by responding to my question regarding books for kids to help them cope. I had not even thought of Fred Rodgers. I think your positive attitude and determination are great gifts. Your dianasaur post was fantastic. I believe that you will know in your heart when, where and how to give. In the mean time, give yourself the gift of self care, self love and self acceptance. I will be praying for you. Blessings!
-
-
Permalink Reply by carelia on -
Thanks, Ann. I am glad the recommendations will help with your project. :)
And I do generally "know" when to give - I just have a hard time with the 29 in a row thing, since some days I literally sleep all day. I know I need it, but it feels like cheating to call it a GIFT to myself, since it's a physical need and not the same thing as a normal healthy person having a nap, ya know?
I pretty much live my life for giving to others - not in a sacrificial or martyr way, it's more like a spiritual practice, or my beliefs made real. I can't imagine NOT giving anymore than I can imagine not breathing. The 29 thing itself, as a practice, may just not be the right fit for me, where I am, right now (I won't leave the group - but I may not have a 29 in a row thing to blog about. ;).
-
-
Permalink Reply by Caroline on -
You could send an email to a friend or family member you haven't talked to in a while... or even give a phone call or send a "thinking of you" card in the mail. Give someone a nice compliment.
There are times that it is very difficult to give if you have physical limitations.
You could also do something kind for yourself... let yourself stay in bed a little longer, have an extra cookie.. something like that.
After I finished the 29 days, I didn't continue like some people have. Instead, when a situation presents itself for me to give or do something kind for someone, I take that opportunity. So, if you are finding it challenging, you could just do that rather than try to find something for everyday.
Hope my advice helps!!
-
Support 29Gifts.org
READ THE NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING 29 Gifts Book
Visit the 29 Gifts Boutique for 29 Gifts Starter Kits and other gifts that give back
Thank You to Mbali Creazzo for inspiring the 29 Gifts Movement
NEW? Please Read First
IN OUR GALLERY
PINCURL GIRLS
VIEW THE SHOW
Pincurl Girls by Jen Lukas-Landis encourage girls to avoid self-doubt by looking for happiness and expressing their artistic talents.
SACRED CIRCLE MANDALAS
Purchase art at sacredcircleart.com touchstonesofthesacred.com
TELL YOUR FRIENDS
Latest Activity
© 2012 Created by Cami Walker -- 29Gifts Founder.
