Outside my home, you won’t find me unless I’m connected to someone’s elbow. Without sight, I’m able to maneuver around my own home free of using my white cane, but once outside my door, I won’t venture without staying connected to someone’s elbow, and my cane. If I’m not connected, I don’t go anywhere. Staying connected is my entire world.
Days are now growing shorter, ushering in winter depression. Staying connected with the outside world, when withdrawing is my natural reaction, becomes imperative. I must get out of the house to exercise, shop, attend church, and stay connected socially. It takes effort . . . a conscious decision not to slip away into the darkness in my heart and soul.
Words
Words play an equally important role in my staying connected to the outside world. Descriptions of the decor of a restaurant, clothing I’m touching, or the looks of the person wearing the perfume I smell, complete a picture in my head connecting me to the rest of the world. Without them, I sit alone blocking out the world I can’t be a part of. Daydreaming temporarily disconnects me, creating a safe place, especially at events.
When stranded at home, the telephone allows me to stay connected with friends and family. Reaching out to check on someone makes me feel useful, preventing a pity party for myself. Sometimes depression still attacked from being unable to text or join in on Facebook. Assisted technology finally became affordable fixing that. It broadened my ability to stay connected with more friends. When overloaded by the stresses of this world, or unable to do a task independently, I now stay connected by texting, emailing, or phoning a friend who can pray with me, listen to me vent, or give advice.
Listening
Listening to news keeps me connected to my world locally, as well as globally. Staying connected by such a simple task wasn’t quite so simple. You see, flipping on the television became a chore when remotes came around. I’m not really into scavenger hunts. To complicate matters, there are remotes for everything: TV’s, radios, video games, and even air conditioners. Have you ever tried memorizing so many by feel? Try memorizing all the channel numbers too, especially while memorizing several telephones.
Needless to say, listening to others was my main news source for many years. You can’t imagine the excitement that sprang up when we purchased XM radio, and I could listen to Headline News. Staying connected to current events became possible, even if someone changed channels on me. XM Radio is blind-friendly.
Always Thankful Mug
There is Always something to be thankful for. A great reminder for everyone!
Each method of staying connected to my world prevents loneliness, fights depression, and provides a support group. Nonetheless, I still have the choice to utilize these methods of staying connected. I must choose to put forth effort to stay connected to others, or remain isolated.
Every day, I see people withdraw into their own little worlds. Every day I see people disconnect from others, While this saddens me greatly, it breaks my heart even more watching so many not connected to Jesus Christ. There are many poor connections requiring more effort, and better choices. We must read His Word, pray, and attend church. We must also be His hands and feet. Share the Gospel, love and serve one another.
Be intentional – do a kind deed or speak a kind word to someone every day.
Not staying connected to the Creator of the universe causes loneliness far worse than blindness, or the loneliness many seniors experience. Why don’t you put forth the effort today to stay connected to the Source to give you joy unspeakable and peace to weather the storms?
Your thoughts? Do share.
© 2023, Jena Fellers. All rights reserved.
Hello Jena, this is such an excellent and timely article. On a personal note I have always enjoyed any conversations that we have had and so happy that you have
Thanks, Robin, for your encouraging words. Slight depression is what I have after lerning to live with more severe depression in the past. Between coping skills I’ve adopted and learning to lean on Jesus has brought me to this point. Takes time and practice. Merry Christmas!
Jena!
You do a wonderful job of staying positive, and motivated during times of slight depression. Your life and constant encouragement to others is such a blessing.
Robin