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The Gift of Being There
8 Secrets for Visiting a Seriously Ill Loved One
Here are 8 more tips for being with a seriously ill friend or family member:
1. Realize that Intention Is Everything
"To a far greater extent than most people realize, we create our own realities," Apollon says. "If your intention is to help your friend laugh and feel good and enjoy her life while you are with her, then clearly state that intention before you leave for the hospital. Hold that intention throughout the visit. If your intention is to rush to the hospital, make perfunctory small talk for 10 minutes and flee before things get too 'heavy', well, you'll achieve that, too. But it won't feel good for either of you." 2. Make Sure You are in a Place of Peace Before You Visit
This is probably the most important tip of all. It's been said so often that it's almost a clich窠but it is very true: you can't help your loved one if you don't take care of yourself first. You can't be a healing influence if you haven't healed yourself. "Get in touch with how you're feeling before you leave for the hospital or the person's home," Apollon says. "If you don't feel calm, peaceful and centered, take 15 minutes to quiet yourself before you leave. Healing works best when you yourself have your energy aligned with your own soul, when you are connected to your own source. "Visualize yourself at an energetically hih level, a really good feeling place," she says. "See yourself meeting your friend or loved one at whatever level he or she is, and then helping the individual move up to your level."