When one person goes through a life-changing event, the impact is not just theirs. One event can elicit experiences for many people. The person it has happened to will definitely feel extreme emotions, whether happiness or sadness and depression. Friends and family around them will experience concern and self-reflection in some cases. But that event will also impact the person closest.
Direct Impact
When my husband discovered he had a stroke, many thoughts and feelings came over me. Concern and fear were the first to be present. My focus was on his well-being and care for him to get better. Fear of what had happened, and fear of what could have happened. But as I was trying to process all of that, I had to be strong in many ways. Advocating for him, watching over our son and making sure he was okay. Placing every ounce of focus on those around me to pull through.
Now as my husband continues his path of growth and healing, I find myself drained. Because I watch and help (as best as I can) when he fights against the depression and fear he holds. I cheer him on through each positive move forward in his healing. It didn’t help that my son accidentally broke his finger at school Monday. But there I was taking care of everything.
My Impact
It may be selfish. Or it may sound inconsiderate. But my cup is starting to run empty. It takes a lot of a person to handle all of this and still try to find a way to take care of themselves. There have been a few days that my mind was not in a good place. But through all of this, I too had my own self-reflection. The realization to make sure I care for myself both physically and mentally. Because I will not be able to stand strong for my family if I do not care for me.
It is easy to assume that one major event only impacts us personally. When in reality, there is no single impact. Every person close to you will change too. Whether through the love they have for you or through their own self-reflection. So please keep reaching out to your friends and family and check on them. Let them all know they are loved and not alone in their struggles.
Enjoy this video.
With great warmth,
