A MESSAGE FROM OUR SOCIAL WORKER ... Resilience

Merriam-Webster’s Online Dictionary defines resilience as: 1: the capability of a strained body to recover its size and shape after deformation caused by compressive stress, and 2: an ability to recover from or adjust easily to misfortune or change.

In speaking with many of our recipients I often feel awe and admiration for them for being able to persevere despite so much suffering. Somehow they are able to rebound after facing terribly difficult life challenges. They are able to find an inner strength that helps them deal with whatever life hands them. They display amazing courage in the face of incredible trials.

Susan’s 21-year old daughter Jane was just admitted to hospice care. When doctors told Susan that there was nothing more they could do for her daughter, they left her on her own to find a place where Jane could receive appropriate palliative care. Despite her unbearable grief and lack of support, Susan was able to navigate the social service system until she found the right place for Jane. She also found the time to ask me to relay her thanks to her sponsor for all her help.

Pauline just turned 89. In her younger years she worked with handicapped children in a hospital setting. She has been a widow for 33 years. Pauline suffers from severe osteoporosis. She is in constant excruciating pain which medication does little to ameliorate. However, Pauline is grateful to wake up each day. She always tells me, “Janet darling, I thank G-d for my wonderful sponsors who are so good to me. And the delicious food they send me makes me so happy! And I can’t tell you how I felt when they sent me flowers!”

Nancy and Peter have 4 children, ages 20, 17, 15 and 5. Peter has multiple sclerosis and degenerative disc disease. He is unable to work. Nancy has only been able to find part time work. They struggle every day to make sure that the children have enough to eat, clothes and items that they need for school. Yet, every time I speak with Nancy she has a funny story to tell about one of her children, or a joke to share.

Each of these recipients is physically and emotionally exhausted. They have tremendous stress in their lives. But they shoulder their burdens to the best of their ability, and live with dignity and grace.

All of us at M’Yad L’Yad contribute in small ways to easing the lives of our recipients. However, we can also learn and benefit from the examples of resilience shown by so many courageous individuals.