June was laying by the Olympic size swimming pool in her new swimsuit. She was really hot and decided to plunge into the water. No one else was in the pool. There was nothing like having the whole pool to herself. The refreshing water cooled her body immediately. The invigorating water encouraged her to proceed with doing some laps around the pool.
Having not swam in the past several years and being a bit out of shape, June began to tire easily. “Ah, no pain no gain,” June thought to herself. June continued to swim, realizing her head was hurting and her body was feeling like Jell-O. Breathing became difficult. Her vision wasn’t so clear. She saw the life guard and a couple others around the pool. No sense in embarrassing herself or bothering anyone. She continued on.
She found herself in the middle of the pool. Deciding not to make a scene, she continued to swim. Finally she made it to the other side of the pool. Nausea, weakness and exhaustion made it difficult for June to get out of the pool. As she stood, her body swayed back and forth, losing her balance.
Realizing she needed help but unable to even say anything, she leaned against the pool side and stood there. Several minutes later she had enough energy to barely pull her body up out of the pool. Sitting at the side of the pool with her feet in the water she felt that someone was staring at her. It was the lifeguard. June was barely able to wave her hand, telling him that she was okay.
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you’re in trouble and you don’t ask for help? Does stress in your life overwhelm you? Are there times when you couldn’t handle one more project and you find yourself volunteering or taking on another?
We’ve all been there. One suggestion is to take some time for yourself. Simply say “No.” Ask for help. There is nothing wrong in asking for help. June could have drowned. We all have the tendency, as June did, to plow through life not regarding your warning signs. Perhaps you may find yourself avoiding help because you’re afraid you’ll be made a laughing stock. Please, stop and ask for help – before you find yourself “drowning.”
Life has many ups and downs. Such stressors can lead to situations and/or feelings unbearable. When you find yourself unable to “keep your head above water,” stop. Look around. And Listen. Listen for ideas from within that can help you. In such a situation, if we panic, we’ll almost certainly slip further into trouble.
You can find peace after you understand the chaos. Always take time to listen to your body. Be kind to yourself. You’ll find the journey of life happier and more fulfilling.
