- You Can't keep life from changing (6/26/15)
- Thoughts are magnets (6/11/15)
- Find your niche in life and do it (5/20/15)
- Do you have a purpose for your life? (4/20/15)
- Thoughts are living things (3/20/15)
- Everything that happens to you either helps you to grow or retards growth (3/6/15)
- Don't be embarrassed to seek psychological or emotional help (2/13/15)
You can't quit just because you feel you're not appreciated!
The son felt like walking off when his elderly mother showed little appreciation for his efforts to please her. She refused to move to any kind of facility where she could be adequately checked on. He was living with her awhile thinking that would be a way to keep an eye on her wellbeing, and keep her company.
Anton wanted to help her while he could. His dad had died suddenly without his having had the opportunity to say "Good-by." The incident jolted him into realizing that life doesn't last forever, on earth. He didn't want the same thing to happen with his mother.
Anton's mom refused to accept his female companion. She didn't measure up to her standards for a girlfriend or a wife. She insisted he move out of her house. Anton met her requests, but not without frustration, and even, some anger. He had come back to his mom's area of residence to try to take care of her.
"What reason do I have to refrain from getting on a plane and taking off," he said to me. "Just give me three reasons and I'll stay."
I, too, felt that Anton's mother was being unreasonable, but she wasn't likely to change. So what advise should I give Anton?
"How will you feel if you leave, Anton"? I asked. "If you feel that you're doing the right thing, you can't always expect appreciation, although it nice to know that your efforts are being recognized and wanted."
My take on appreciation is that Jesus healed 10 lepers and only one thanked him Luke 17:11-19. If Jesus modeled that attitude, I can do the same. If you assist others for a pat-on-the-back you may as well not perform favors. Often you will be applauded, but you can't feel hurt if people do not reciprocate by saying, "Thank you."
You have to help other people because that's what Jesus modeled for you, all through Scripture. The Prodigal Son episode is another example of doing good when you seemingly receive no perks for your efforts. Luke 15:11--31. The wayward son seemingly did everything wrong that a dutiful one would do but his father WELCOMED HIM BACK.
Anton chose to stay in his mom's area. He rented his own apartment,and continues to fulfill his mother's needs the best he can. He evidently decided that it was fulfilling to show his love without expecting anything in return. Can you do that and can I?
Please comment. Have you experienced a time when you felt that you received no applause or appreciation when you felt you should have? Respond to my email if you like.
Take care and God bless,
Ellen Shuck
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