burn out

The ethics class I recently took discussed the importance of self care for anyone in a care-providing role; teaching us essentially that we have an ethical responsibility to care for ourselves. This fits into the counselling ethic criteria of non maleficence - 'at the very least, do no harm'.

We can actually wreak havoc in others' lives if we end up burned out, numb, or overwhelmed....we can do significant harm. If we are in a position of power or authority, we will likely abuse it or mis-handle it when we are in burn out or acute stress.

A lesson life is teaching me is that we can confuse self care and self protection. Genuine self care requires genuine community.

Caring for one another is a continuous circle, and I am seeing the importance of nurturing and preserving that circle, giving priority to restoring the smallest of gaps because of the high price of inattention or avoidance.

2009 was the year of learning about burn out from so many sources and so many contexts that my heart aches for the many sadnesses.

May 2010 be the year of learning about renewal, refreshment, invitation, healing, and wholeness.

For thus says the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel;

In returning and rest you shall be saved