Set Boundaries to Stay Well as the Seasons Change

Hello Beloved! We hope last week's share helped you step up your hand washing game. It's such a simple tip, but sometimes it's the simple things we fail to do well or at all. This week we encourage you to set boundaries to stay well as the seasons change. 

This one is probably the most challenging, as it requires you to mark a safe distance between yourself and those who are sick. It is especially difficult if you live in a city, travel on public transportation or work intimately with people, because in these contexts you can't often control with whom you share space and for how long. Plus, there is the added pressure of not wanting to offend those who you need to keep at a distance. What is one to do? How does one establish practical boundaries? 

1. Recognize the value of your why. You are keeping a safe distance in order to protect what is valuable. The quality of your life-the wealth of your health. These are things that matter to God too! No need for guilt here.

2. Share your boundaries, while expressing genuine concern for the person who is sick. While it is good for you to maintain healthy boundaries, your wisdom in preserving your health does not have to come at the expense of showing genuine concern for those who are sick. No one likes to be unwell. And it is likely that this person is experiencing quite a bit of discomfort. In this case, acknowledge the other person by asking how they are feeling and truly listening.

If you are in the position to offer practical assistance, such as a tissue or hand sanitizer do so. Pray for them a speedy recovery and then let them know that you'll be keeping a safe distance, until such time. If the person is a loved one, let them know the season for elbow bumps, air kisses and awkward smearing of faces against window panes has arrived. Sharing these boundaries is essential, as it gives people a context for coming to terms with the changes in the relationship (no matter how temporary) and allows them to be intentional in honoring them!

3. Stick to them. Boundaries don't protect when we don't honor them.

Finally, if the person is greatly unwell, encourage her or him to invest in her or his health by taking a day or two off or seeking medical counsel. We carry so much guilt about caring for ourselves, especially when it means we may become less productive, that your kind encouragement could help her or him to make a choice that is kind for all. 

Happy temple building! 

Take care. Bless many.