Three Things Being Sick Does for You
I hate being sick. Since Monday evening, I’ve sniffed and moaned and whined my way around the house. Fred has been so patient with me–even dealing with my grumpies on his birthday yesterday. He sent me this picture today:
When not nursing my sinus and ear infection, I’ve been feeling very sorry for myself. I like to be productive. I enjoy scratching off to-do lists and accomplishing tasks. Instead, I’m muddling through urgent grant projects while blowing my nose and praying for a few good hours to be able to sit up and write.
Miserable.
Is there anything good about being sick?
Fred sent a note this morning accompanying the grumpy cat photo, “it’s OK. I know you like being productive, but there’s always a time to rest.”
A time to rest. A time to be sick. A time to be grumpy. Sounds biblical.
If Fred’s right (and I think he is), there has to be a reason for being sick and something good has to come out of it, right? Here are some ideas:
Three Things Being Sick Does for You
1. Rest. None of us get enough rest. Though we don’t want to be sick to get rest, it does provide a handy excuse to nap all day in your fuzzy pajamas.
2. Think. How often do you simply stare at the ceiling and think? If you’re really feeling crummy, sometimes staring at the spackling is all you can do. But don’t take this an opportunity to be anxious. Instead, remember a good story, experience, or what it feels like to be at the beach/mountains. Think about your favorite activity and how you will make it a priority again when you feel better.
3. Read. When you’re well enough to focus your mind, but still feeling physically weak, reading is a great exercise. How many chances do you actually get to sit down and quietly read your favorite novel/magazine/newspaper/Internet site. Enjoy it!
Photo Credit: http://icanhascheezburger.com/
Editor’s Note: Great post from Stepcase Lifehack on “How to Stay Productive When You’re Sick”
Dana, its so funny that this should come up on my news feed just now!!! This morning when I was getting ready to come to campus way too early for an all-day-and-night-a-thon in the library I thought, “man I need to get sick soon.” It was an odd thought, but your three “sick activities” were just the three I was craving when I had it! Thanks for the insight :o)
Much love & I do miss getting to visit you (and Chaplain Bates!),
Anna Adams
Thanks so much for commenting, Anna! The timing is wild, isn’t it? I know you are working very hard in your new program–keep up the awesome theological strides–and DO make time for yourself (resting, thinking, and reading) soon. I miss you, too.
“Go within or go without.”
“Don’t just do something, sit there!”
I love these!
Just being. Listening to guru tapes.
Breathing. Counting blessings and friends.
Enjoy. God is good.
I have asked the question about not feeling like praying after a major surgery, it seems like the hardest thing to do, I pray regularly when I am well. I feel lost sometimes. Almost lifeless.
Bruce:
Thanks for commenting. I agree, praying after surgery (or any major illness) is difficult, for many reasons.
An idea: I find that asking a friend/loved one/pastor to pray with me comforting. When I feel lifeless–and as if I don’t have the words or energy to offer my own prayers–praying with someone is often encouraging. I hope this helps.
Peace and comfort to you on your healing journey. You’re in my prayers.