Each of us, from time to time, experiences fears, anxieties and uncertainties in life. Sometimes things happen which are beyond our ability to control. At other times events result because of choices, good or bad that we ourselves have made.
Although we cannot always control what happens to us or to others, the one thing that we can always control is the way in which we respond or react to things that happen in life. Each of us has a choice in every situation and that choice is whether to allow a particular event to get us down or whether, instead, to deal with it and to learn from it. In other words, it is not so important what happens to us but rather how we respond to what happens to us. The same rainy day that is a huge disappointment to the vacationing beach-goer could very well be a blessing to the farmer. It's all a matter of perspective.
Victor Frankl, a European psychiatrist who suffered unimaginable hardships while interred in Nazi concentration camps, not only survived his unbelievably horrific ordeal but went on to enlighten the world with his realization that no matter what anyone did to him he was always free to choose how he would respond, how he would interpret the significance of events. His book, "Man's Search for Meaning" is a chronicle of his life as well as a wonderful insight into the ability each of us possesses to ultimately control our own lives.
You have a choice to enjoy your life or not. We each are granted a short ride on this planet and then it is someone else's turn. Life is short and truly is what we make of it.
Generally speaking it is healthier to learn to deal with life's stresses than it is to take a pill. There are hundreds of medications on the market, which can affect how we feel. All medicines have potentially unpleasant and sometimes serious side effects. The greater number of different medications a person is taking the greater the likelihood of an adverse reaction resulting.
Many medications prescribed for "nerves", for sleep and for chronic pain are addictive. Of course there will sometimes be circumstances in which your doctor might prescribe pills and in which case it would be appropriate to take them. But, generally speaking, if you are having trouble coping with situations in your life you do not want to become addicted to a medication.
Dependence on drugs just adds to your problems. Pills do not change your life situation. Only you can do that by making a conscious effort to do so. Exercise, relaxation techniques, getting out of an unhealthy relationship and life-style changes can help immeasurably.
Taking time to read books that teach coping skills is especially beneficial. After all, if a person is illiterate no amount of medication will allow him to read. He must be taught and learn how to read.
There are many excellent books available at local libraries and at various bookstores, which can be extremely helpful in learning how to deal with life and it's never-ending challenges. I have personally found a number of these books to be helpful to me and to my family. Your local library has dozens of such books available. Once you start looking you will find lots to keep you busy. It costs no money to borrow from a library. Many books are also available on audio cassettes and CD's for listening to while you drive, walk or jog.
So read a book or two and learn how to take control of your life. No one and nothing should control your life but you.
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