In a hustling and bustling society, it is easy to feel as though one is on a perpetual treadmill - ever running and never reaching a destination. Much of our everyday appliances, fast moving cars, and fast foods are designed to make life easier by giving a little extra time. Yet, despite these inventions to make life easier, I still find myself impatiently waiting behind someone at the grocery line, disgusted when the traffic light turns yellow, and irritated if I do not get the closest parking spot. Even in my classes, I find myself glancing at the clock thinking about what is next on my to-do list. I am caught running on the same treadmill as many others who suffer from a hurried life.
John Ortberg discusses the importance of living an unhurried life in his book, The Life You've Always Wanted. In his book he stressed some of the detriments to being in a state of hurry. Health issues, multi-tasking, clutter, and superficiality are only a few. Each of which, ultimately has a detrimental effect on relationships.
Counseling is based on the fundamental principle of caring for people and desiring to help them. However, I believe it nearly impossible to really help a person if one is not "present" in the counseling session. If I, as a counselor, am anxiously glancing at the clock during a counseling session thinking about how many clients I have yet to see before I can go home, I am neglecting my responsibility. I am too hurried to truly listen and care for the client. It is to the benefit of both the counselor and the client to practice living an "unhurried life".
Amen!
ReplyDelete