Monday, March 29, 2010

A New Life's resolution - Day #64 (Physical) {written for 3/22/2010}

If you're just joining us, check out the explanation of my "New Life Resolution"

Day #64 - Physical

According to www.definitionofwellness.com, "The physical dimension of wellness encourages cardiovascular flexibility and strength and also encourages regular, physical activity. Physical development encourages knowledge about food and nutrition and discourages the use of tobacco, drugs and excessive alcohol consumption. Physical Wellness encourages consumption and activities which contribute to high level wellness, including medical self-care and appropriate use of the medical system.

Unless you've been living under a rock, you've seen or heard quite a bit on the news lately about the passage of the 2010 Health Care Reform Bill.  I haven't read the whole thing, so I'm not going to take up your time and attention talking about the changes that it will or will not make for your and your family.  I'm also not going to go on about the misinformation being spread around in order to put fear or anger into the hearts of constituents.

Instead, this week I'd like to start all of you thinking and talking about how this bill could influence our dimensions of wellness.  If you've been tuning in to this blog for any period of time, you've probably figured out that I like it when people are paying attention and finding a way to think about these sorts of things for themselves rather than simply regurgitating whatever they hear on the TV or radio.  So I'm going to take it easy this week and simply put some questions or prompts out there.  My hope is that this will spark some conversations here or in your office or around your kitchen table with the family.

*  How will this bill affect the physical wellness of the country?
*  Will the physical health of those who currently do not have access to affordable insurance be better as a result of having access to annual physical exams, eye doctors and dentists?
*  How can physical wellness be promoted to our children in a way that makes them see the benefits down the road?  Is that possible?
*  Is this a chicken and egg problem?  Have health care costs become astronomical because we only seek treatments for disease rather than regularly seeing doctors for preventative maintainence or do we delay treatment because of the costs of the health care?

What other aspects of the health care bill have I missed as they pertain to our physical wellness?

I eagerly anticipate your thoughts about these things.

Saturday, March 20, 2010

A New Life's resolution - Day #62 (Social)

If you're just joining us, check out the explanation of my "New Life Resolution"

Day #62 - Social

According to www.definitionofwellness.com, "The social dimension of wellness encourages contributing to one's human and physical environment to the common welfare of one's community. Social Wellness emphasizes the interdependence with others and nature. It includes the pursuit of harmony in one's family. As you travel a wellness path, you'll become more aware of your importance in society as well as the impact you have on nature and your community. You'll take an active part in improving our world by encouraging a healthy living environment and initiating better communication with those around you. You'll actively seek ways to preserve the beauty and balance of nature along the pathway."
 
This week I've decided to do something a little different and totally steal an idea from a friend of mine that writes a blog called Your Pal, Jill. She is a wonderful writer that I went to college with. She's a huge fan of old-fashioned letter writing and all that that entails, so her blog is a series of letters to people/places/things she has messages for. Check her out because she's very witty!
 

The social letter goes to the founders of Creative Memories:

Dear Cheryl and Rhonda:
     I'm sure you won't remember me, but I was once one of your consultants.  From the late 90's until a few years into the new millenium, I told people about your products and mission for a profit.  Now I just do it for fun.  In the 12 years (!) since I was first introduced to your amazing company and their mission to help us preserve our memories, I have become a big fan and a constant evangelist for what you stand for.
     I have completed over 13 photo albums/scrapbooks of my life in that time. The photos and stories contained in them tell of Christmases and Easters, motorcycle adventures and trips with my girlfriends and family.  I was always a fan of photography, but you have made me into a historian of my life.  I can see the value in that now as the last decade has passed, but I'm sure as I grow older and people go out of my life, these albums will become priceless ties to all those I have loved and the life I have lived.
     While these albums and your company has been a joy to me on a personal level, more important are the times I've been able to spend with family and friends working on documenting our memories and making more in the process.  I've met new friends who I've grown to love.
     My most fond memories of these times spent over pictures and paper are those made with my mom every month.  Despite our busy lives, we've made a commitment to get together once a month for a whole weekend of "scrapbooking".  We laugh over silly pictures and stories.  We grow sad over loved ones we've lost.  We eat junk food and watch epic movies all day long as we write and cut and glue down not only photos of our lives, but the ties that bind us together as well.
     So thank you for the memories you've helped me make and preserve.

Creatively yours,
Heather

Friday, March 19, 2010

A New Life's resolution - Day #61 (Emotional)

If you're just joining us, check out the explanation of my "New Life Resolution"

Day #61 - Emotional

According to www.definitionofwellness.com, "The emotional dimension of wellness emphasizes an awareness and acceptance of one's feelings. Emotional wellness includes the degree to which one feels positive and enthusiastic about oneself and life. It includes the capacity to manage one's feelings and related behaviors including the realistic assessment of one's limitations, development of autonomy, and ability to cope effectively with stress. The emotionally well person maintains satisfying relationships with others."
 

This week I've decided to do something a little different and totally steal an idea from a friend of mine that writes a blog called Your Pal, Jill. She is a wonderful writer that I went to college with. She's a huge fan of old-fashioned letter writing and all that that entails, so her blog is a series of letters to people/places/things she has messages for. Check her out because she's very witty!

The emotional letter goes to my psychologist:

Dear Dr.,
     Ah, the irony that I was just discussing with you that I was having writer's block about who to address my "emotional" letter to!  It should have been so obvious to me.  Perhaps it's because I often don't think of you as a person.  You are simply a means to an end in some ways.  For me you are a sounding board for all the anger, frustration, sadness and loss that I can't otherwise communicate to my loved ones; a light to illuminate what I should be able to see if I wasn't blind to some things; a rational voice to tell me that there are people out there who agree with my point of view or who are really "living" life in a way that I've never been shown.  There are no other relationships in my life where someone knows so much about me and I know so little about them.
     Over the past 5+ years, you have helped me mend my broken heart and broken mind with something more substantial than the band-aids of spending money and eating that I'd been using as remedies before.  You've helped me be aware and involved in my daily life.  It may sound weird, but in some ways, you have slowed time for me.  Before I started talking with you, life seemed like it was going 100 miles an hour out of control.  There were so many things that I "had" to get done and it felt like time was moving too quickly for me to even start on those tasks.  Time still seems to go quickly once in a while, but I think I've been able to truly appreciate more about life on a day to day basis rather than thinking 5 years ahead.  I'm able to enjoy myself more when I am spending time with family and friends, "indulging" in my hobbies or just laying on the couch with my puppy.  I am better able to discern the voices telling me I'm being lazy from the ones telling me that I am a good person and I deserve a rest.
     I still struggle with issues about my self-esteem, but I am learning to treat myself with the same kind heart and words that I try to treat other people with most of the time.  I'm trying to remember that although there will most likely always be people who are smarter or funnier or "better" than me, that doesn't mean I am not smart or funny or good.  I'm also beginning to realize that I don't have to be an expert, or really even good, at EVERYTHING I try.  We are each made up of different talents and influences.  There are things that we will succeed at doing and things we will fail at miserably.  That's a good thing.  After all, it's our differences that make us who we are.  The world would be awfully boring if it was otherwise.
     For all these things and many more that I'm sure are to be revealed in the days, weeks and years to come thank you doesn't seem nearly enough.

With all of my gratitude,
Heather

A New Life's resolution - Day #60 (Intellectual)

If you're just joining us, check out the explanation of my "New Life Resolution"

Day #60 - Intellectual
 
According to www.definitionofwellness.com, "The intellectual dimension of wellness encourages creative, stimulating mental activities. An intellectually well person uses the resources available to expand one's knowledge in improved skills along with expanding potential for sharing with others. An intellectually well person uses the intellectual and cultural activities in the classroom and beyond the classroom combined with the human resources and learning resources available within the university community and the larger community."
 
This week I've decided to do something a little different and totally steal an idea from a friend of mine that writes a blog called Your Pal, Jill. She is a wonderful writer that I went to college with. She's a huge fan of old-fashioned letter writing and all that that entails, so her blog is a series of letters to people/places/things she has messages for. Check her out because she's very witty!

The intellectual letter goes to quite a few people because of the intellectual influences they've had on me.

Dear Intellectual Influences,
     First, Mr. A., my 8th-grade teacher.  Thank you for cultivating an interest in current events, which I still enjoy learning about and staying up on.  Thank you also for telling us that there is a whole, big world outside of Fort Wayne at a time in our lives when we were beginning to think we knew everything (teenagers can be like that).  At the time I didn't believe you, but you were definitely right.  I could spend a lifetime seeing other people and places and still not see it all.
     Next, Mr. L, my high school math teacher.  You really kicked my butt.  I went into your class(es) feeling like math was the easiest thing I'd ever done and I never had to study for it.  You definitely changed my mind.  You challenged me to really think critically about things and to really seek out solutions.  Your POWs (Problems of the Week) were real killers, but I had such a sense of satisfaction when I actually began to be able to complete them.  Before your classes, math was boring, after....well, I'm an actuary, so you add it up!
     Finally, third is Troy.  I may never be able to put into words all the ways you have influenced me intellectually.  You've taught me how to have a political debate, how to research and remember details and facts.  You've shown me how things, people, events that I never thought had anything to do with one another are clearly related.  Dating you has turned me into someone who used to think with a "checkers" mind, but now thinks with a "chess" mind.  I'm better able to analyze and strategize in any given situation and I'm able to learn about myself and others through our daily interactions because I am truly paying attention.  Most of the time, anyway.  For those things, I will be eternally grateful.

With all my gratitude,
Heather

A New Life's resolution - Day #59 (Spiritual)

If you're just joining us, check out the explanation of my "New Life Resolution"

Day #59 - Spiritual

According to http://www.definitionofwellness.com/, "The spiritual dimension of wellness involves seeking meaning and purpose in human existence. It includes the development of a deep appreciation for the depth and expanse of life and natural forces that exist in the universe."

This week I've decided to do something a little different and totally steal an idea from a friend of mine that writes a blog called Your Pal, Jill. She is a wonderful writer that I went to college with. She's a huge fan of old-fashioned letter writing and all that that entails, so her blog is a series of letters to people/places/things she has messages for. Check her out because she's very witty!


The spiritual letter goes to God.

Dear God, Heavenly Father, Yahweh, Jehovah,
     You have so many names, I hardly know what to call you most of the time.  Although I'm told you know me intimately (down to the number of hairs on my head) and yet, sometimes I feel as though we've never met. I am often lonely and unsure of what I should be doing with my life.  I try to be still and listen for any messages you have for me, but all too often it feels like you aren't speaking to me.  Perhaps you are and I'm just not able to understand you.  If that's the case, you know my limitations and I hope you would find a way to communicate that you know I will understand.
     I know that it is not possible for me to know your mind, but I'm very confused about who you are exactly.  I am told you are loving God and yet I've also been made VERY aware that if I step a foot out of line, I will be severely punished.  Yet these same rules don't seem to apply to other people.
     There have been times in my life when I have been nearly inconsolable with grief because someone I loved was "taken home" to you.  At those times I wanted to yell and scream and demand an explanation from you.  But the fear of your retribution keeps me from doing that.  Even writing this letter makes me feel as though I'm opening myself up for years of punishment for being "cheeky" and "talking back."
     How is possible for us to have the close relationship I'm told you long for with all of your children if I have to keep these things to myself?  In my relationships with people here on Earth, I've found those times when we disagree or argue or have to confront one another are the times that our bonds are made the strongest.  Those trials and tribulations require an honesty and forthrightness that I don't feel I'm able to let myself have with you.
    This weekend I will go to your house and I hope that I will find you there.  I want us to be able to meet in the solitude of prayer and the fellowship of singing and through those things truly become a Father and daughter.

With all that I am,
Heather 

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

A New Life's resolution - Day #58 (Occupational)

If you're just joining us, check out the explanation of my "New Life Resolution"

Day #58 - Occupational

According to http://www.definitionofwellness.com/, "The occupational dimension of wellness is involved in preparing for work in which one will gain personal satisfaction and find enrichment in one's life through work. Occupational development is related to one's attitude about one's work.' Traveling a path toward your occupational wellness, you'll contribute your unique gifts, skills and talents to work that is personally meaningful and rewarding. You'll convey your values through your involvement in both paid and unpaid volunteer activities that are gratifying for you. You'll know when you're on the correct path for career wellness, when your work and hobbies become exciting."

This week I've decided to do something a little different and totally steal an idea from a friend of mine that writes a blog called Your Pal, Jill. She is a wonderful writer that I went to college with. She's a huge fan of old-fashioned letter writing and all that that entails, so her blog is a series of letters to people/places/things she has messages for. Check her out because she's very witty!


The occupational letter goes to my job as an actuary.

Dear Actuary Gig,
     I'm writing you today to make a confesssion.  This isn't easy to say, but I feel it must.  Sometimes I think you don't really "get" me and we often have disagreements about where we will be in the future.  As a result, over the last decade or so, I've found myself in the loving arms of other (part-time) gigs.
    With you, I've experienced much joy over the years.  Remember all of those difficult benefit calculations and annual valuations we struggled through together?  Those long, worrisome days spent hunched over actuarial tables hold some of my fondest memories because I know we both came out on the other side stronger and better compensated.  We've shared early morning study time and late night study time.  We've seen generous raises and perform reviews together.  We've shared concern over the future of pension actuaries and where we might end up.  Through these triumphs and troubles, we've grown.
     But there has to be more.  With photography, I travel.  With crochet, I create and warm those around me.  Even writing, my old college nemesis, has shown me adventure and success in ways I never imagined it could.  Actuary Gig, I know you're a good provider, but if we can't succeed together in our exams, I fear we will have to reevaluate things between us.
     I share these thoughts with you not to hurt you, but so that we may work on our problems before it becomes too late to salvage our relationship.
     I eagerly anticipate your response in the days to come.

Your economic servant,
Heather

Monday, March 15, 2010

A New Life's resolution - Day #57 (Physical)

If you're just joining us, check out the explanation of my "New Life Resolution"

Day #57 - Physical
 
According to www.definitionofwellness.com, "The physical dimension of wellness encourages cardiovascular flexibility and strength and also encourages regular, physical activity. Physical development encourages knowledge about food and nutrition and discourages the use of tobacco, drugs and excessive alcohol consumption. Physical Wellness encourages consumption and activities which contribute to high level wellness, including medical self-care and appropriate use of the medical system.
 
This week I've decided to do something a little different and totally steal an idea from a friend of mine that writes a blog called Your Pal, Jill.  She is a wonderful writer that I went to college with.  She's a huge fan of old-fashioned letter writing and all that that entails, so her blog is a series of letters to people/places/things she has messages for.  Check her out because she's very witty!
 
My first letter recipent this week will be my body, the center of my physical wellness.
 
Dear Body,
     Let me first start off by saying "thank you".  Despite my repeated criticisms of you, (things like how you love to hang onto every last calorie I give you in case we're ever in a famine situation and how you seem to be wrinkling in all the wrong places and don't get me started again on those grey hairs you've been pushing out of my head for the last decade!) you constantly bounce back!  When I crashed my motorcycle a few years ago and broke my arm and the doctor told me that I'd be as good as new in less than 6 months, I didn't believe him.  But you did it!  You healed beautifully and only remind me of how I did you wrong once in a while when the weather gets bad.  Even though I rarely give you enough rest and the fuel I feed you with is sometimes lacking, every day you rise and shine and still perform nearly every task I ask of you.
     I know that there are other people who are mean to you and don't appreciate you for the amazing structure that you are.  I'm sorry that I sometimes join with them in putting you down rather than sticking up for you.  I promise to try to do better about that.
     I also promise to take you out more often.  I know that you love it when we get out and walk the dog around the block or go to the gym and test you.  I know that you love it because you respond like a champ.  You get stronger and more energetic and can hardly wait for more.  I'll try to remember that the next time I want to keep you inside on the couch on a nice day.
     I hope that with the exception of those drastic measures I had to take a couple of years ago, we are both in this for the long haul.  Since that's the case, I say we make a pact.  I will feed you better, take you out more often and let you rest more if you will just keep being the amazing edifice you've always secretly been.
                                     With all my devotion and affection,
                                                        Heather

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