In early 2008, my health started to decline. I eventually became aware that I was suffering from burnout (or physical exhaustion). As I gradually regained my health I learned that I must monitor my own physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
During my next furlough (time in the States), I was able to gradually recover. In the process, I learned a lot. One of the most effective measures I put into place was forming an accountability team, consisting of four women that know me well. To put it in their own words, they "have invested their lives in mine"!
A key realization we made was that I must pro-actively take frequent get-away trips. They are to be a time to unwind and refresh. A time to rest and recuperate. I think missionaries sometimes wear busyness as a badge of honor. But this is dangerous. We must give ourselves permission to set aside our busy schedules and take time to restore our souls!
And so, last month I joined my fellow-Omaha missionary friends - Julie and Ryan - for a lovely three days on Banda Island, in Lake Victoria. We had an absolutely amazing time!
"Be still and know that I am God."
- Psalm 46:10
"Are you tired? Worn out? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest."
- Matthew 11:28-30 (Message)
"Emotional fatigue can result from excessive work, but more often it is simply because the out-go is greater than the intake."
- Dr. Bob Brenner
"One has to find balance between what people need from you and what you need for yourself."
- Jessye Norman
"Miserable missionaries are not very effective."
- Michelle Perry, Love Has a Face
During my next furlough (time in the States), I was able to gradually recover. In the process, I learned a lot. One of the most effective measures I put into place was forming an accountability team, consisting of four women that know me well. To put it in their own words, they "have invested their lives in mine"!
A key realization we made was that I must pro-actively take frequent get-away trips. They are to be a time to unwind and refresh. A time to rest and recuperate. I think missionaries sometimes wear busyness as a badge of honor. But this is dangerous. We must give ourselves permission to set aside our busy schedules and take time to restore our souls!
And so, last month I joined my fellow-Omaha missionary friends - Julie and Ryan - for a lovely three days on Banda Island, in Lake Victoria. We had an absolutely amazing time!
"Jesus withdrew with his disciples to the lake... " (Mark 3:7)
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| We had ample time and opportunity to explore... |
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| ... hours upon hours to sit and read... |
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| ... favorable conditions to enter our own thoughts and enjoy good music... |
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| ... the leisure to sip a cup of tea... or two... or three... |
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| ... and a perfect setting to watch an incredible sunrise! |
"Be still and know that I am God."
- Psalm 46:10
"Are you tired? Worn out? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest."
- Matthew 11:28-30 (Message)
"Emotional fatigue can result from excessive work, but more often it is simply because the out-go is greater than the intake."
- Dr. Bob Brenner
"One has to find balance between what people need from you and what you need for yourself."
- Jessye Norman
"Miserable missionaries are not very effective."
- Michelle Perry, Love Has a Face
4 comments:
Almost a month later... I still feel rested from our few days at Banda! What a needed time that was. -ryan
I love the 'heading' of this blog "Miserable missionaries" and then the rest.... "are not very effective". I think the same can be said for us all! Very nice photos and I am glad you are looking after yourself and enjoying God's calling!
Sandra
Deb, I LOVE the quotes and the gorgeous professional pictures.
I love you. Peggy
Happy Birthday Mamanaomi
With best wishes
Marina
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