It's a Change of Life
The word God has put on my heart to apply to my life is balance. Although I've had all the symptoms for nearly two years, thanks to surgery, I am officially menopausal.
You know, the change. When people hear the word menopause, it almost strikes a response of sympathy and grief. That's where balance is needed. I've lived the hormone teeter totter and ask my family, it's real. At the same time though, it need not be a death sentence. It's a change all right, but God impressed on a mentor of mine that it is a change of LIFE, not death.
Here are some humorous and practical ways you can find that balance in knowing menopausal issues aren't fun, but they need not rob you of the precious gifts you are to God, yourself and others.
1. I think we have a shot at a Nobel prize. Not to take anything from Al Gore but think about it---perhaps global warming is really the Baby Boomer and now the Gen X ladies worldwide having hot flashes? Honestly, when one hits it's not just a warm fuzzy feeling, it's what I call a nuclear glow.
2. You can make a difference, especially if you live in colder climates. As you navigate through this season, you can offer your sweaters and heavy coats to those not experiencing the nuclear glow. I know the feeling won't last forever, but give and trust that when you have a need, God will provide. He has yet to leave me in a barrel with no clothes on.
3.You got what you wanted, time to read! Okay, it's at three in the morning, but this change of life brings about some nights when sleep is hard to come by. It's a great time to read, or better yet, pray.
4. Be a mentor. If you are going through hormonal and/or hotflash experiences, you know you are not alone. Perhaps you are not a mother of young children anymore, but maybe you know one. She might have the baby blues, and you could encourage her just by simply loving on her. In return, you're going to get love back. It's win win.
5. Keep a journal, blog, etc...I know moods can swing as fast as the stock market. Why not list your praises and prayers each day, if only in a bullet list, so on the hard days you can see God's hand on your life every day? If you blog and have it open to the public, I think you would be surprised to learn how many feel just like you. These might be ladies who are not connected to Christ. Your authentic voice sharing the reality of hormones but the bigger reality of life with Jesus Christ could change lives for eternity.
Lastly...Get Rooted! Christian Women Take Root is a social network where you can make friends, find support, and receive information and fellowship. Visit here and if you feel led, apply for free membership. Hormonal adversity is isolating, but it doesn't have to be. Make sure you are surrounded by true sisters who can pray for you and be a friend.
OOOOH. been there.
Blessings,
Linda
HEART OF A READY WRITER – Reading Through the Bible in 2009
Posted by: Heart of a Ready Writer | January 09, 2009 at 04:17 PM