A journey of the soul – Day 19

The year is taking its toll. The newspapers of the past few months say it all. We throw up our hands in despair when we are confronted with the desperate needs in our country, the unrest in our hearts and the drought in our souls. The result is that the need for spiritual care is overwhelming.

In our personal lives, we are also struggling to keep our heads above water. The compasses that previously kept us on course are shaky. Today, people are constantly on the move, changing jobs, moving from one town to another or even countries, in search of greener pastures. In the process, they leave behind their support systems and when that happens, they become anxious and vulnerable. Even when you stay put in your familiar neighbourhood, it is, often, not the safe place you used to know.

We are also confronted with changes in our lives such as divorce, the death of a loved one, job loss, children who are addicted to drugs, ageing parents who need care and a change of work environment. People feel threatened by their circumstances. No wonder our souls are anxious and weary!

We all want a place to tell our story. We need an ear to listen, not a feel-good-pill that people love to offer as a comfort in our distress.

Help others to help yourself.

Each one of us can provide spiritual care in his or her way. You can help by listening, by reaching out, encouraging or comforting someone, even if you are the one in need of spiritual care. You might just discover new strengths in yourself, while comforting others.