SUPPORT
We've all been troubled by the rise in unemployment, the large layoffs, the smart, hard-working people who have difficulties in finding jobs, the talent of the idle that is (temporarily, at least) wasted. On the other hand, I've been heartened by the optimism, the good spirits, the confidence that I see in many of the victims of the current economy. I wonder how they maintain this optimism in the face of what, to me, would be a crushing blow. Then I was reading my Sunday newspaper and found a possible answer. A recent article pointed out the various support groups springing up to help the unemployed.
One person started an e-mail alumni group. Others started job-list websites. Still others began writing newsletters, with advice and job opportunities. Maybe it's groups like these that help account for the optimism, the continued good spirits. This kind of practical and emotional support would help a lot in keeping people's spirits up. The feeling of remaining connected, remaining part of the office family, keeping in touch with friends provides an important help to people looking for a job or a new career or simply something to pass the time.
The same thing applies to most human difficulties. If we have the support of family and friends, the feeling that someone cares, someone to talk to, someone to relate to, we can survive most problems. Group support helps us to deal with all sorts of issues.
Now, we all have the problem of being shy in seeking help. We worry that we're intruding on others, that we're asking for too much when we seek support. Similarly, when we receive cries for help we become impatient, we fail to bring understanding to those who seek our support. Let's try to understand how important this kind of emotional support is and seek it when we need it, give it when it's needed. Don't be shy, don't be embarrassed to admit you need the support of others. Be happy to have someone you can ask for help.
And don't become impatient when someone seeks your support. Try to understand how important it is, how much you can help just by being there. Think about how exciting it is when you can help someone and give all the support that is needed. Be happy to be needed.
1-21-02
Home Page 2002 Archives 2001 Archives 2000 Archives 1999 Archives