There man who planned a trip to Italy. All his life he wanted to go there but could not afford or take the time. For twenty years he communicated with relatives in Italy and collected literature about every place he would visit when he had the chance. He saved his change for twenty years. Finally the day came that he retired and saved enough money for the two week vacation that he wanted so badly. He met with the travel agent and bought tickets and his excitement increased. He packed maticulously , etc. The day finally came.
On the plane he looked at all of the travel brochures and finished writing his itenerary. After several hours, the plane landed and the pilot announced they landed in Poland. "Poland" the man exclaimed. Upon investigating, he discovered there were no flights out for two weeks. Now the man was really miserable as Poland was the last place he wanted to be. Further, all the money he saved would have to be used to live for the next two weeks. At first, he was very angry and depressed and stayed in his hotel. When he went out to eat, he kept overhearing others planning activities and sightseeing trips. Others asked him to join but he declined. After a couple of days of adjusting to his disappointment, he decided to go with others and try to find something positive in the situation. He could remain miserable and alone for the two weeks or accept his circumstances and see what happens. Little by little, he became open to seeing the sights of Poland, meeting others and finding humor in his situation.
At first he was resentful and grumpy. Soon he shared his story and disappointment with others. Others were supportive and empathetic. By the end of the two weeks, he had found humor and made life-long friends that had welcomed his presence. Etc.
I overcame health problems and over several years . As my health got better, I came to understand how I needed to contribute in a better way to the world. I went back to school and took 24 credits a semester and got my bachelor in 3 years. I worked part time and started a masters program. My marraige ended but I continued, My kids watched me struggle with classes and often not having a book and lack of needed computer. Many sacrifices were made and my kids did not complain that they did not have the material things that others did. I graduated with my masters but still needed to take a licensing exam, which I did and passed. I took a job that paid very well. I was now able to give my children some of the things that I had not been able to before. We could order pizza or go out to dinner. I could buy them a nice prom dress. I had a bright future and so much to look forward to. Only two years after-I had an accident and life changed drastically. My symptoms of ptsd returned. Its been 5 years now and I am still adjusting. (Im living in Poland) but trying to make the best of it.
I dont know your situation, lost job due to economy? but things are really temporary even though it is tough to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I know that it is difficult-but there is usually something to be valued in every circumstance if we look for it. When we fight it, we may never discover it. I have always been a very independent woman (do it myself attitude). I am finally discovering that this is an opportunity for me to discover that I need to let others help and do for me. That is tough for me to accept-but Im trying. Circumstances are not necessarily from ptsd-but ptsd sure does make circumstances harder to deal with-you are so right.
