At times, you face sadness, sickness, and/or strife experienced by those you love, and when that happens, it's best to find a way to bring some solace, joy, and/or reprieve to the situation. No one wants to find themselves in that place, but we all know that tough times happen.
I thought about this when I visited a loved one who suffers from illness. My loved one has a great attitude and would never want people to think he's suffering, but after spending a short time with him, it's clear that life is not as easy as it once was. I ache in the face of this suffering, but aching does no one any good and aching doesn't make the sadness and strife go away.
So, what can I do?
I need to find ways that I can bring comfort, joy, peace, and support to my loved one. I need to recognize what brings a smile, laughter, and his ability to forget the challenges he faces.
As I thought of this, I came up with this list.
A comfortable home
Helping to make the home comfortable is one way to bring solace. Hanging pictures that bring about good memories and inspire storytelling. Making sure the home is clean, bright, and welcoming also brings comfort.
Engaging in positive activities
Recently a relative brought a big puzzle. The puzzle took everyone's mind off the strife and created good camaraderie. Finding pastimes that foster good cheer and collaboration is joyful and comforting.
Delicious foods
Making and serving delicious foods brings comfort and creates an opportunity for good conversation and care.
Positivity
When situations are grim, everyone knows it, so to be positive and focus on the good that exists rather than the tough times brings peace and comfort.
Companionship
Just being present in the midst of those who suffer can bring comfort and care.
Making sure that essential needs are met
Good observation can help you determine how to meet the essential needs of those who need greater care and support. To meet those essential needs brings joy.
So, rather than focus on what's going wrong, it's best to focus on what you can do to bring comfort, care, and joy to those in your midst that face great challenge and strife. Onward.