“People are not fence posts.” · Mindset MasterClass

“People are not fence posts.”

I heard Dr. Heath say that “people are not fence posts—they change.”

We are all in a continual process of changing. Transforming. And most of the time, that change is slow and subtle. But sometimes it is abrupt.

The same day I joined this class, a childhood friend of mine had a heart attack. Throughout the week, I spent time with her up at the hospital.

On that Friday, she and I shared old memories, laughed, and I was even able to get her to eat her approved hospital food, which was a victory.

What was just an ordinary moment, I treasure now.

That weekend, she went on to have thirty strokes. She hasn’t been able to move or speak to me since. She just cries when she hears my voice.

Right now, when I’m with her, I’m focused on the present—what she needs, how she feels, how can I help, etc. Which is more guesswork, since she cannot tell me. But I want to find some things we can enjoy doing together.

I’ve thought I could read to her. Or we could listen to music. And maybe these activities would aid in brain recovery, and help her regain her language. But, in the past, she didn’t enjoy books or music.

Does anyone have any mindset tips for this type of situation? How can I be a good friend for her in this new season of life?

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