Night(mares)

Night brings our troubles to the light, rather than banishes them. -Lucius Annaeus Seneca

One of our greatest coping skills is setting realistic expectations. We are learning to use all our resources when we lie awake at night struggling with physical or emotional pain.

We can help ourselves by making our bedroom surroundings as pleasant as possible. Adding small items, such as flowers, bookcases, mini reading maps, stuffed toys, extra pillows. These are not just cosmetic improvements. It's admitting that we might be spending more wakeful time in there. Some nights might be sleepless, but admitting it and preparing for it may make the experience less frightening and more restful.

And if you're sitting awake one night, think about this:

"Assertive behavior promotes equality in human relationships, enabling us to act in our own best interest, to stand up for ourselves without undue anxiety, to express honest feelings comfortably, to exercise personal rights without denying the rights of others."

Your perfect right: A Guide to Assertive Living by Robert E Alberti & Michael L. Emmons

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