All in the family

Support is a powerful tool. When people feel bad about themselves, or have problems that they need to overcome, support, or lack thereof, can become a major issue in their recovery process.

Often times, however, we overlook support that is being offered because of our own, flawed, human nature. I am a perfect example of this phenomenon.

I am a member of several support groups for various issues, including weight. This past week, during a routine posting, I received a response that caused me to be hurt. Now, first let me say that this issue has been resolved, satisfactorily, and I am a member, I hope, in good standing. However, the incident not only caused me to unsubscribe from the group, it was only the kindness and forthrightness of the group moderator who pulled me back into this network of support. She noticed my unsubscribe, and contacted me to inquire as to whether there was a problem. I explained my feelings, and after several communications, this incident was straightened out. A silly misunderstanding, after all.

Now, my point in mentioning this is that we often times pull away from those very people we need the most. Though this is not my family or a long time friend I am discussing, it is a group that provides me with not only motivation, but hope, a sense of belonging, and encouragement as I go about my daily task of living. So, if this group is important to my mental, emotional, and physical well being, imagine how important our family and friends are.

Yet, we continue to alienate ourselves, daily, and in ever increasing numbers, from our families. It is a normal situation when a mother and daughter are not talking, or a father and son, or vice-versa. Brothers and sisters fight, over trivial incidents, we fight for honor, yet leave our hope behind.

We give up our support systems for pride. This is, truly, a sad, sad day for most of us.

Keep your family and friends close. We need others, more than we often times care to admit. Surround yourself with positive, emotionally stable people, and, if your family is dysfunctional (like everyone else’s) accept them for who they are, and do the best you can.

Maybe the support that is needed is not for you, but from you. Everyone needs someone at some point in their lives. It may be your need today, but someone else’s need tomorrow. We must always be there for each other, it is the only way to survive.

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