We talk a lot about mental health here at EDiS, and today on World Mental Health Day, it feels even more important to reflect on what truly matters. I originally wrote this back in 2012, and while some things may have changed, the point still stands: it’s all about the people we love and the importance of being aware and present for them.
The “Phone Call”
Things are good. You wake up in the morning, get dressed, go to work, talk with friends and family during the day; Sounds good to me! Talk with friends and family during the day… that’s the one I like. I can’t wait to hear the voice of my wife and kids. To hear “dad” or “Jimmy” is what I look forward too. In some way, everyone has somebody they look forward to spending time with. Making plans with friends and family (usually for something fun) is what we like to do, don’t you? Holidays, barbeques, birthday parties, whatever.
Planning a trip or a barbeque is exciting. We don’t want to run out of fuel half way between your trip or your barbeque right? The thought of it now makes me want to check the fuel on the barbeque (I don’t use charcoal). The look on everyone’s face when the flame goes out…just picture it, a surprise why? Because we didn’t plan, because we thought someone else took care of it? Never be afraid to ask questions. How can we know if we don’t ask or no one tells us?
There’s a lot to be said for being aware of the important things in life. To be “safe” so we can enjoy the company of the ones we love. We usually don’t think about “what we should have done” until it’s too late. There is always something; something that could have been done to prevent an accident.
I have some friends that are police officers. We (my wife and I) are also friends with their wives. They all say…the worst part of the job is the “phone call”. The phone call, no one wants to receive the “phone call”. In construction, it’s the same. No one wants to receive the “phone call”. With that being said, I can’t think of anyone who would like to make the “phone call”. I know people who have received the “phone call”… not good. It’s a bad day to say the least. Your whole world changes and perspective on life is very different.
So, what’s important? At EDiS I am continually reminded that people are important. They are important because they are loved by someone. We might not know them, but someone is calling their name.
