Wide World

With A Body Like This, Who Needs Enemies?

Worry, anxiety, confusion, grief, uncertainty, anger, physical and emotional fatigue-- These are only some of the new and persistent challenges brought into the emotional playlist of one living with Dystonia. Depending on the severity of symptoms, the impact of daily living is a heavy burden to bear, endurance of which is doubtless one of the most transformative experiences available to mankind.

In light of all the personal growth, personal stress and personal management we deal with, who needs enemies? Unfortunately, ‘brawling behavior’ is not so rare an occurrence around the Dystonia watering holes. Emotional flare-ups are only part of the problem, since it seems that some are simply hard of heart, finding fault with others within the community at every turn.

Some examples of poisonous behavior include:

The bad news is, when these types of negative influences are allowed to flourish in a community such as ours, they only prevent advancement of the cause and stifle the wholeness and relief of the individual.

The good news? We don’t have to fall prey to the bullying whims of others. If we train ourselves to find some way to empathize with the person (or persons) involved, we can keep our own heart joyful and avoid validating useless negativity.

First, ask yourself (as we all must do if we want to live honestly), “What could I have done differently?” and “Am I the problem, or a part of the problem?” If you answer ‘yes’ to one of these questions, take some time with yourself, with a counselor or close friend to discover and work through some of the things that charge your emotional flashpoints, such as stress, anger, frustration, hurt or control.

If your honest answer is ‘no’, learn as much as you can about deflecting negative behaviors. Perhaps, your kindness and/or stern, but patient response will be just the right amount of Love the often unwitting aggressor needs.

Stay active, even when your body overrules itself. If you have the proper support, mobility and accessibility equipment, you can stay active. It is vitally important to participate in local community life and personal development activities. It helps to keep us balanced.

So, blow off steam. Explore religious faith and attend communal events. Enrich your emotional experience in the museums and open areas. Volunteer, practice optimism, take a deep breath.... and then.... just be kind!

Below are a few resources you might find useful as you continue to live and interact with others.

Need help managing toxic people?

How To Deal With Toxic People

Dealing With Toxic People

Don't Keep It Bottled Up

Need pointers on conflict resolution?

University of Wisconsin's 8 Steps to Conflict Resolution