Pam Halter
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Parents Blog

A Rough Day
Monday, May 6, 2013 by pam

Parents of special needs children have more on their plate than the average bear. So, how do we know when to add more? Should we add more? Especially when we're struggling?

I'm facing this dilemma right now, although the "more" on my plate has been thrust upon me through no fault of anyone's. It involves helping a friend on a daily basis (for over a week now and with no end in sight.) Offering hospitality every day, which is pretty much right up my alley, most of the time. I like feeding people and helping when I can. And my friend is in great need. Don't get me wrong, I don't resent doing it. However, I woke up this morning feeling rough.

First, I'm sad today. So very sad. No reason. That's just the way of it sometimes. It's a little distressing because I've been feeling pretty darn good the last week or so. What the heck? I hate it. Every little thing Anna is doing is driving me completely nuts. I feel resentful and tired and sick of myself and everything. And yet, I still need to get up and get the day going.

I'm grumbling and muttering and saying things I shouldn't. I really hate myself this way. And through it all, Anna is smiling and pleasant and wanting hugs and kisses.

Just kill me know.

Second, I hurt all over like I have the flu. That's something new. It makes me feel for friends who suffer with fibromyalgia. I'll be praying for them today. And taking Tylenol.

Third, I'm really, really tired and my brain is foggy. And I've been sleeping good. Anna's been sleeping good. I think I have to look at my diet. It hasn't been that great lately.

Okay, that's my whining for the day. Who else wants to jump in? The water's fine!


Comments

Julie Ann Monzi From g At 5/15/2013 11:29:22 AM

I think those days when you feel sad/depressed/angry for what we think is no apparent reason - those days I dislike the most. I can't put a finger on what is bothering me. But, like you said, the full plate is enough to send anyone back to bed for days and days.

pam From At 5/7/2013 7:16:47 AM

We're serving the Lord, Jenny. I keep repeating it. Whatever you do for the least of these ... my help comes from the Lord. Thanks for prayers, though. That's what gets me through!

jenny From pa At 5/7/2013 7:11:21 AM

Ugh...I can relate! Every day I'm hanging on to the Lord and His word. Many days I feel like ""I can do this!"" then the next, I'm sad and fearful and wanting someone else to have my life. I honestly pray that someone would come and HELP You with this work! Seems like you are so alone in this. Sad..

pam From At 5/6/2013 9:24:28 AM

thanks - I'll check it out

Janice Heck From mays landing, nj At 5/6/2013 8:48:40 AM

Hi Pam, Here's a link to another mom of special needs children. You might like this article. http://tamiclayton.com/2013/05/04/six-secrets-parents-of-special-needs-children-have-but-dont-tell-you/#comment-5579 I linked your article to her comment page, too.

pam From At 5/6/2013 6:51:20 AM

Thank you, Ann Marie!

Ann Marie From Pennsville, NJ At 5/6/2013 6:31:01 AM

You get a free pass today! We all need them at times & should definitely use them. As a mother, wife, friend, neigbor, we are never ""off"" because that's how we are ~ loving, giving, sharing. So celebrate yourself today by doing just enough to not beat yourself up over.

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