Are you allergic?

I recently read an excellent article in the Spring 2007 edition of the Leadership Magazine.  Written by Brian McLaren it's entitled, "Our Allergic Reactions."

The gist of the article is what I felt compelled to post on because it impacts the life balance and self care of the person in the people helping profession.  The gist:

We are only as sick as our reactivity against certain things (or anything, really.)  The greater our reactivity, the more likely our sickness.

For example, a strong reaction to church legalism can result in going overboard on our freedoms, ignoring the boundaries created for our very protection and fulfillment; or too strong a reaction to work done sloppily can lead to the unhealthy effects of perfectionism; and so on.

Suggested remedies:  View criticism by others as a friend, not a foe; develop a relationship with a spiritual director.  And I'm reminded of a quote I've heard before, "Everything in moderation.  Even moderation."

Check out the entire article.

Keep your reactivity (to anything) in check and you will ensure you are serving strong!