"CRISIS TRIAGE"
Triage: Definition #3. A process in which things are ranked in terms of importance or priority.
Life happens. Crises happen. Sometimes they are spaced close together and other times they occur many years apart. It is a rare life that does not experience some catastrophe.
Disasters come in many shapes, sizes, and types:
- We may discover that a loved one has betrayed us.
- We may find out a person we cherish is in trouble with alcohol, drugs, or maybe with the police.
- There may be frightening medical test results.
- A natural disaster - tornado, hurricane, flooding may interrupt the normal flow of everyday life.
As a member of Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon, I have had to learn to live life on life's terms. I have also learned tools for when a crisis occurs.
I realize today that over the years a "Crisis Triage" procedure has developed. When a crisis happened recently, this is what I did automatically, without a lot of thought.
When this event occurred, I was not able to think well at that moment. My emotions, especially fear, began to overwhelm me. This is what I did.
MY "CRISIS TRIAGE"
1. Quickly get to a private place, get on my knees, and pray. Ask God to help.
2. Call my sponsor. Talk out what has happened and what I am feeling. Get support and reassurance that I am not alone and that ultimately, all will be well.
3. Write down any important information and what I need to say or do, or any questions I may have to ask.
4. Take action one item at a time.
5. Reach out to trusted others for encouragement and support.
6. Go to meetings as often as possible.
7. Continue praying frequently.
8. Stay in touch with my sponsor.
9. Remember to take care of myself as best I can. Try to rest, eat, and keep moving.
10. Remember my experience, strength, and hope that builds faith and trust in God.
God bless you now and in time of crisis,
Prayer Girl
1. Quickly get to a private place, get on my knees, and pray. Ask God to help.
2. Call my sponsor. Talk out what has happened and what I am feeling. Get support and reassurance that I am not alone and that ultimately, all will be well.
3. Write down any important information and what I need to say or do, or any questions I may have to ask.
4. Take action one item at a time.
5. Reach out to trusted others for encouragement and support.
6. Go to meetings as often as possible.
7. Continue praying frequently.
8. Stay in touch with my sponsor.
9. Remember to take care of myself as best I can. Try to rest, eat, and keep moving.
10. Remember my experience, strength, and hope that builds faith and trust in God.
God bless you now and in time of crisis,
Prayer Girl

