We Listen 2 you

So I know that all of us have stress in our lives but lately my life seems out of control. There are just not enough hours in the day to accomplish everything that needs to be done, and each week looks just like the week before. To be honest, I am exhausted and everyone wants something from me. – I just want to run away to Jamaica for a week or two, or have a breakdown, whichever is cheaper (probably running away). Since neither of these options fit in my budget I guess I have to find a way to cope. Here are my ideas so far- feel free to share some of your own:

 Do something you enjoy for at least 10 minutes a dayI know that time is difficult to find but even I can find at least ten minutes each day to relax with a book, or to take a walk.

Keep away from stressful eventsI

f you are already stressed out don’t watch an intense TV show, or a political talk show on the radio that will get you emotionally charged. Remember the idea is to be relaxed and calm. Seek out events and music that have a calming effect.

Keep away from stressful people

We all know the people that drive us crazy and completely stress us out. Understandably we may not be able to completely avoid them all together however limiting contact is a great idea.

Just say “NO”This is an area that I have great difficulty. Knowing your limitations is essential to manage stress. A good rule of thumb is- if you are busy just politely say I just can not handle any more in my schedule at this time. 

Stop debating

When you are around your “Uncle Jimmy” that wants to draw you into a discussion about everything that is wrong with your profession, change the subject and definitely do not start a conversation about work with him. Don’t  pick fights with people, just let things slide because sometimes it just isn’t worth the fight.

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What is it like to never feel comfortable in your own skin because you feel different?  How much does it hurt to feel like you have never been accepted even by your family unless you lie? Why can’t you just be who you are? What if you don’t even know what you are anymore?  Being gay can be a struggle for everyone involved. What if you are not even sure that you are gay? Sorting all of the emotions and fears out can leave you overwhelmed and terrified. If you need a safe place to talk things out we are here. Neutral ground can be hard to find, but we understand that this is YOUR life to live. If you are struggling, or just need to talk we are here for you-anytime.

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I understand that “you can never go home again”, but it would be nice to feel at home once in a while.  Sometimes I want to just jump out of my own skin and fly away. Winter weather can be soft and beautiful but it can also lead to loneliness, and despair. Sometimes I find that I am not really depressed but missing old times, and old friends. Spending time in memories seems to make me feel even worse, especially when I remember how happy things used to be. I remember the people that have left my life and I long for the sound of their voice or the touch of their skin.  So together you and I keep struggling to survive this cold and lonely winter.  At least we can talk to each other and for a little while feel a little less alone.

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This year has been a tough for many.  Whether it is emotional, financial, or physical, most of us have been focusing on survival. The fact that we have made it through this year is an accomplishment. I know that it is not quite the New Year but the ability to focus on the prospect of 2010 – A new decade- brings a glimmer of hope. I don’t know about you but I didn’t think that I would make it through 2009- well at least not with my sanity. I sincerely want to thank you for inviting us into your lives and trusting us with your struggles. We have all learned so much from each of you. Yes we are here to listen to you but we also learn from each other and draw strength from simply knowing that someone cares

Amber

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It was so refreshing to hear my HIV client speak with joy in her voice today.  It is the first time in months I have seen her smile!!  Acceptance of her disease and place in life has been affecting her attitude.  It can be difficult to see things positively when you feel like every time you get up you are being kicked down again!  Don’t hesitate to give us a call.  We are here to listen to you..

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Has it been a long time since you’ve had a good night’s sleep? Tossing and turning, worrying about the argument that you just had, and wishing that things had gone differently? It’s funny how we all have similar times like these, but that doesn’t make it feel any better. We can relate to the turmoil, and frustration. Sometimes talking things out can help a little. Sometimes just knowing that someone out there hears you and is willing to help you work through your anger is enough. We are here to listen because we know what it is like to be alone.  You don’t need to figure this out by yourself, we are here for you.

Amber

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Advice is often all around you- it is never hard to find someone to give you an opinion but sometimes you don’t want to hear it. Sometimes we just want to be heard. I have found myself wanting to scream just listen to me!! I don’t need them to DO or SAY anything to fix the problem, simply listening and REALLY hearing me is enough. Knowing that someone might understand a bit of what I am going through makes me feel a little less alone—and for me that makes life a little bit easier.  

As always we are hear for you

Amber

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Feeling alone over the holiday season is common for many of us.  Whether family is afar, or no longer on this Earth, feeling alone creates a sense of sadness and grief.  All the joyful commercials on the television ,or the ones just trying to get us to spend our money can bring out the Scrooge in us.  Being without a mate or partner makes many feel empty, like there is no one with which to share special times and create memories.  If the “bah humbug” spirit has a grip on you, please don’t hesitate to call.  We are here!!

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This time of year can be difficult for many.  Some are dealing with the loss of a loved one.  Others the lack of finances to buy gifts, or even pay electricity and rent.  As a result it is not uncommon to isolate from others.  Please do not hesitate to call us.  We will listen..

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Discovering your disease is terminal can be terrifying.  Lack of acceptance from others causes you to doubt yourself.  You may feel numb and overwhelmed resulting in difficulty focusing and concentrating.  Fear of death may cause you to question your life and how to move forward.  Please don’t be afraid to call.  We are hear to listen to you!

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