“Social support is one of most important factors in predicting the physical health and well-being of everyone, ranging from childhood through older adults” (Clark, 2005).
A strong support is such an important part of my day-to-day life. My greatest support is my husband. He tends to be the other half of my brain, always somehow aware of when to hold my hand or lend a caring ear. His strong, steady spirit is a Christian light that guides my faith and keeps me centered on what is important in my life. My faith is also one of the greatest supports in my life, as I try to follow the road that Christ led and has guided me on since my childhood. Just knowing myself, I feel it would be very different and difficult to try to make it through each day without a reliable form of support. I know often times I will try to find understanding or relief in a situation through my personal faith, but the encouragement from a person who loves me also has great impact.
Recently, my husband and I came across the wonderful discovery that we will be expecting our first baby in the fall! We’re very excited and I know this new adventure will definitely bring many new loops for me. Through this new experience, I know that I will need to maintain a good support system of family and friends for comfort and advice. I already know I have my husband’s constant love and support at this early stage, and his attentiveness and preparation for needs to come as our family grows. At this point in my life I think I will discover that there are both benefits to having support as well as some stresses. Having support from family is such a great treasure to have, as they provide knowledge, experiences, and fun times to share during this special time in my life. It’s also important to consider the facts about reality. This will be the first grandchild for my parents, the first grandchild for my husband’s parents, and the first great-grandchild for my grandparents too – not to mention my in-laws have been in the child care business for over 50 years. With all those “firsts” in mind I know there’s bound to be a surge of perspectives offered out of love of course throughout my pregnancy and after birth. Typically, I tend to be an independent, organized, keep to myself person, doing most things on my own. Initially, it might be a challenge for me to rely on others for help more often, but I would rather have the support with a little added stress instead of endeavoring on my own and boats loads of anxieties without anyone to turn to. Plus, when the time comes, I may just enjoy a little extra attention as a change.
Reference List
Clark, Corey M. (2005). Relations Between Social Support and Physical Health. Rochester Institute of Technology. Retrieved from http://www.personalityresearch.org/papers/clark.html
