How important is it for human beings to have companionship? As I think about those who are alone without anyone to have a friendly conversation with, I have concluded that companionship is vital. We were not created to be alone or to live in solitude without making a connection to another being.
Studies have shown as people age and have accomplished all that they can accomplish, they enter a stage of development known as Erick Erikson’s 8th stage “Ego integrity versus despair”. This is where an individual either finds satisfaction or regret. As I observe those who struggle with regret, I notice the one person they do not know is themselves. Now they are left alone with the one person who is the most important person in their lives.
They have raised their children, owned houses, and owned businesses. As the seasons of life have passed them by, they have neglected themselves. Now the time has come for them to sit with a stranger one who they may or may not enjoy spending time with. One who they may not even like. As a counselor, I find it is very important for me to help people develop a relationship with themselves, learning who they are without all the distractions and without those people, places, and things they have placed their identity in because at the end of the day, we must be okay with the most important person in our lives and that is self.
When one can be okay with who they are, they will find satisfaction when being alone and around others. They will continue to pour into the next generation and share their experiences and the history they are leaving behind. Here is the ego integrity of this stage where self-efficacy is displayed and observed. Companionship, whether it be with another person or an animal that is being cared for, seems to have an impact on the longevity of a person’s life. People live longer when there is something to live for.
I have written this poem to help me to remember me and I would like to share it with you.
Remember You
The Lord told me to tell you to remember you.
Because He has not forgotten you.
Remember the you that takes care of your home.
Remember the you who cares for others.
Remember the extraordinary you.
Remember the kind you, Remember the glow inside of you.
The Bible says one of the Greatest Commandments is to love your neighbor as you love yourself. We can only give away what we have inside. So today I ask that you Remember you.
If you’d like to know more, schedule your appointment with Rhonda today.
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