Embrace The Battles You Face

In the past week, I have encountered various emotions and obstacles that I had not experienced before. If you are wondering, yes, it has been a challenge. I was struggling to balance school, work, internship, homework, church, and my personal responsibilities which led me to have various mental breakdowns in front of my parents, friends, and alone. When things seemed to be going a lot better and I was beginning to find solutions to my stressors, I was injured in my workplace. I know, what else could go wrong, right? Not only was I finally figuring things out for myself, but now I also have to worry about my health and physical limitations. I was mad. Upset. Tired of fighting for things to alleviate. I was advised by my physician to take things slow and focus on myself during this time.

Restrictions. Have you ever been restricted from anything? Well, I was restricted from my work duties and had to spend time lying in bed with ice on my leg. Although it sounds comfy, I was annoyed this was happening to me. At this moment, I realized how one thing, my injury, paused my entire life. I was no longer able to go to work, I canceled appointments I had planned, and I had to email my professor notifying her I could not attend class. In the midst of all my chaos, I laid in bed staring at my white ceiling, took a deep breath, and told myself “Everything will be okay.” 

Remember when I mentioned earlier that I was struggling to balance all the important things in my life? Well now that I am home facing the pain of my injury, I am also “responsibility free.” I realized the break I needed and continuously cried for was literally happening, but I was so focused on my stressors I forgot about the present. So, what next? I took advantage. I began to do my homework that was due the week after and catch up on research and reading for class. I was also able to catch up on sleep and spend quality time with my family by watching movies, eating take-out food and attending church. 

Sometimes, our lives seem to be a mess and perhaps so chaotic we do not want to invite anyone into our mess. However, what can we do with the chaos that already exists in our lives? In my case, I decided to use my situation for my benefit and do the things that will help me live more at peace. I realized this injury was not an extra weight on my shoulders, but a forced moment to take care of the other things in my life I was struggling to manage. 

Therefore, If you are currently facing something unforeseen, look at how you can use that situation for your benefit and tidy up other things that need attention. Do not think like I used to, but instead remember that not all battles are meant to tear you down. Some are meant to help you pause, reflect, breathe, and make you stronger. 

Written by : Rachel G; Masters Intern at Olive Branch

If you need support, live in the Chicago area, and would like to speak to a professional counselor, please contact Olive Branch Counseling Associates, Inc. at 708-633-8000. We are located at 6819 – 167th Street in Tinley Park, Illinois 60477.