DE Ponderings by Kevin Kessler

Just as I was sitting down to a nice dinner that Tammy had prepared, my cell phone rang. The number appearing on the screen was unfamiliar, and after an inward debate, I answered. I quickly discerned that the woman calling was in crisis. She explained her situation and asked what I could do to help.

Although not acquainted with the caller, I was aware of her circumstances. And, as much as I didn’t want to admit it at that particular moment, I was the person she needed to call for assistance. I knew, too, that after hearing her story, I needed to get involved.

Dealing with crises, especially when an immediate response seems necessary, can move me into a panic mode. What will I do? I really don’t have anything to offer that is a quick fix. I feel badly and become even more anxious. This is the place I was quickly moving toward as I continued talking with the woman who was becoming more upset and irritable. Offering little if any hope to her except that I would give attention to her concern, we ended our conversation.

Frequently, following a situation like this, I will remain in panic mode for a while, stewing and fretting about what I should be or could be doing. I made a decision to respond differently. I put aside the panic, focused on the delicious meal in front of me, and calmly processed the information I had just learned. Now, in a more relaxed state I began to think more clearly, putting together in my mind a plan of action.

Following dinner, I made two phone calls to trusted friends who, after hearing the story, dove in to help. Within the next few hours, the crisis had been attended to and all ended well.

I was reminded of some valuable insights from this experience I believe are worth sharing.

• Take time to think things through (if there is time to do so). A good response is not always an immediate response.
• Rely on trusted friends. We don’t have to resolve problems on our own. Reliable friends are generally quite willing to assist in times of crisis. Don’t hesitate to call them.
• Stay calm. Don’t panic. A non-anxious response is frequently more fruitful.
• Be amazed. Bask in the joy of good people who re- spond willingly, quickly, and helpfully.
• Give thanks—to God, and to the individuals who step up to help in time of need.

Sometimes the difficult moments in life we face are opportunities for acquiring helpful insights that are at our disposal to assist us in future difficulties that will arise. We do well to remember what we learn to always be prepared.