There is both an anticipatory hope and a fearful uncertainty when we are preparing for a surgical procedure. We are usually preparing for surgery because we have been suffering from pain or an ailment that surgery is intended to relieve. Hence, the anticipatory hope. Yet, the very idea of full anesthesia creates a fearful uncertainty that things may not go well, or even, that we may die. As we see our family members or friends before being 'wheeled' into the surgical theater, we silently wonder if it will be for the last time. They, for their part, are wondering the same thing, though rarely do they actually say so.
We tell ourselves that there's no reason to worry. These surgeries are successfully done every day. Then, we remember the cautionary words of our doctor telling us of the risks of any surgery, and our fear mounts again!
So, here are three tips to help keep your heart and soul centered and calm in those hours before surgery.
First, stay conscious until you are unconscious. In other words, be attentive and present to each moment rather than projecting yourself forward into all the possible outcomes that may or may not occur. All you really have (surgery or not) is this moment. Right now. And, in this moment you are alive, breathing, seeing, tasting, feeling, hearing. Don't lose this moment.
Second, learn something new. Read a book, watch a movie or documentary, have a stimulating conversation with a friend, read a magazine you would not regularly purchase. Let your mind expand to take in something new. Thoughts of fear dissipate when your mind is engaged and new information is being experienced.
Finally, prepare to meet God. Go within your soul and find God's presence there. Affirm that in God's presence all is well. You are 'in good hands!' Come to a space of acceptance that whether you live or die, you are held in God's presence eternally.
Medical science is an awesome gift from God that gives life and relief from pain in astounding ways. As with everything in life, there are risks, but if we keep our focus on health rather than fear, we just might find our soul being settled in peace.
Come to think of it, these tips might be useful whether we're preparing for surgery or not!!
We tell ourselves that there's no reason to worry. These surgeries are successfully done every day. Then, we remember the cautionary words of our doctor telling us of the risks of any surgery, and our fear mounts again!
So, here are three tips to help keep your heart and soul centered and calm in those hours before surgery.
First, stay conscious until you are unconscious. In other words, be attentive and present to each moment rather than projecting yourself forward into all the possible outcomes that may or may not occur. All you really have (surgery or not) is this moment. Right now. And, in this moment you are alive, breathing, seeing, tasting, feeling, hearing. Don't lose this moment.
Second, learn something new. Read a book, watch a movie or documentary, have a stimulating conversation with a friend, read a magazine you would not regularly purchase. Let your mind expand to take in something new. Thoughts of fear dissipate when your mind is engaged and new information is being experienced.
Finally, prepare to meet God. Go within your soul and find God's presence there. Affirm that in God's presence all is well. You are 'in good hands!' Come to a space of acceptance that whether you live or die, you are held in God's presence eternally.
Medical science is an awesome gift from God that gives life and relief from pain in astounding ways. As with everything in life, there are risks, but if we keep our focus on health rather than fear, we just might find our soul being settled in peace.
Come to think of it, these tips might be useful whether we're preparing for surgery or not!!
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