JOH: The Next Leg of the Journey

The Next Leg of the Journey

kirkwhalum.com

Somehow or another time froze for a moment as I looked at the label on the bar of soap in my hotel bathroom. (I know, I need to get a job)! The word SOAP was nowhere to be found on the packaging. Instead was written, "Clarifying Bar." My mind raced to wonder, "What is the connection between clarity and cleansing."

I believe that the Lord was saying that the clarity we seek, the clarity we need in order to know what to do and when to do it... is somehow tied to the cleansing work of the Spirit. 1John 1:9 says; "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us of all unrighteousness."

As you meditate on that scripture, let those two words, "cleanse" and "all," sink deep into your spirit. Allow God to first cleanse your conscience (He has already cleansed away the sins themselves) and then to give you the clarity that you need for the next leg of the journey. As he washes away the guilt, he will also point you in the right direction.

Kirk

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Stroke Of Hope

Was founded in March 2003 by Hazella Rollins-LaVar and her husband, Jeff LaVar. The aftermath of Hazella's stroke has given them insight into the kind of support survivors and all other stakeholders need during their continued recovery. STROKE OF HOPE FOUNDATION is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization committed to improving quality of life for people by creating stroke awareness, promoting prevention and providing support for stroke survivors, their care partners and families by encouraging physical and emotional recovery, and maintaining an on-line support system. It is our firm belief that the level of recovery for all concerned is largely contingent upon attitude, adjustment and tenacity. Survival is the just the beginning. We want to help you reach far beyond that!

participate in the tradition of giving

Make a much-appreciated contribution to Stroke of Hope.

on-line donations

We are now offering a convenient, safe, secure, and private e-donation connection.

* Click HERE for 10 tips for giving safely online.

mail-in donations

If you would like to mail in your contribution, please send a check to:

Stroke of Hope Foundation
30 S. Broadway, 3rd floor
Yonkers, NY 10701
Phone: 914-965-3613

email: hazella
@strokeofhope.net

One Minute Stroke Diagnosis*
Stroke researchers have devised a simple three-step test to determine if someone may have just suffered a stroke.

1.Ask the person to show his / her teeth. This "smile test" checks for one-sided facial weakness.

2. Have the person close his eyes and raise his arms straight out in front of his body. Stroke victims usually can't raise both arms to the same height.

3. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, such as "Don't cry over spilled milk." Listen for slurring.

This test should not be used as a substitute for appropriate medical evaluation and can miss some types of stroke. If you or someone you know is unable to perform any of the tasks above, call for help immediately.

Spotting stroke symptoms early is critical. To be effective, potentially life saving clot busting drugs must be given within the first 3 hours of the onset of stroke.

By Jane H. Brice, MD, MPH

Care Partner Tips:

1. Admit to your feelings of anger, guilt, self-doubt, victimization and/or resentment. Be open about them with someone you trust or seek a health care professional or support group.

2. Take care of yourself. If you don't, you will not be able to care of the Survivor you love.

3. Don't deprive yourself of sleep, exercise, proper medication and personal time. You can't lead a fruitful life without these basic necessities.

4. You can't do it alone. The emotional and physical burden will eventually take its toll.

5. Pace yourself. Plan to be a Care Partner for the rest of your Survivor's long and challenging life.

6. ASK FOR HELP!

7. Receive help graciously from wherever it comes.

8. Don't feel obligated when you receive help from others. Allow them to "Share in the Care".

9. Get professional psychological help, if you need it. Watch for signs of depression (i.e. insomnia, too much sleeping, over or under-eating, loss of interest in once fulfilling things, frequent agitation or anxiety, etc.).

10. Don't isolate yourself.