Just when you think you're doing better
 

Reality comes and gives you a swift kick to the face. My mom invited me to go to this thing at church tonight. Some sort of worship thing. I honestly didn't want to go that much but figured I'd give it a shot. We thought it would be held in the main church. Wrong. It took place in the much, much smaller chapel.

About 10 minutes in they began with the music. I was already a little tight because the first speaker was echoing a bit. But that music was everywhere. I've gotten so much better with noise. I'm not wearing my earplugs at work anymore or anything like that. But even with plugs into I only lasted another 10 or 15 minutes. And I'm a wreck. Had to take an Ativan and everything. So much for being better.

Church music has been a serious problem for me for a decade. The sound systems usually are poor quality. The echos are atrocious. Then, the many voices signing out of tune and sync make it all worse.

I suggest planning a slow recovery day tomorrow.

My best to you.

reovery
 

Hi Socks

As recovery goes, you might find some things bother you more (like music) than others. I've found there is no way I know for sure what I can and can not do until I try things out.

I keep earplugs in my purse at all times just in case sounds are suddenly very loud again and I can't handle it.

Also, if I am not sure how a situation will affect me, (like going to a movie) then I have a back up plan in place -- like making sure I will leave the movie and letting people I go with know that leaving may happen for me.

Keep on healing!

Poetrymom

I miss church so, so much. I used to love going.

I am going to try again soon and see if it's any better. I hope that it gets a bit easier on you with time.

Is there a lobby you can sit in at church? My church has a lobby with recliners and TVs where you can watch the live service. Maybe that would be easier on you?

Not one that's far enough removed from the live action, so to speak. Yesterday was a problem with being surrounded by voices but in the main church it's the organ that gets to me. The room is big enough that the voices don't seem so stifling but that organ is just right there and I can't get away from it.

Live action. That's a good way to express the noisy crowded movement filled world outside of home.

Live Action.

I can't imagine I would survive being at a church service. The rest of the day and possibly the following g days also might be in bed.

I have always said I'm in church 24/7, 365. Fellowshipping now is more one on one.

The video series YOU LOOK GREAT made me realize I can handle an evening with another couple much better than say church. I might sleep more the next day but it will fulfill social needs that are vital to my existence.

Way off topic I am sure I am as I don't remember the topic.

Well wishes for a beautiful Sunday. It's 65 sunny and breezy here in northwest Indiana.

Jace

I absolutely used to love being in church prior to my accident. I even played guitar and sang on the worship team, sometimes for both Sunday morning services. Now, I am slowly beginning to ENJOY being back in church, but I still have to limit the noise and movement stimulation in the service. And I wear my sunglasses to help with this, but I end up getting overstimulated eventually.

I retreat to the women's bathroom or the fellowship hall area to get away. Or sometimes I just fall asleep during the service behind my cool shades!!

The music issue is bittersweet, because I love to hear and participate in the singing, but I have a very limited capacity to do this. Just today, the team was asking when I would return to singing with them, but I think I will never be able to perform musically again. Been stuck in the same place for over a year now musically. But I count my blessings to have some return musically, and I still appreciate music by listening to it.

The teaching today quoted a verse in Zephania that says God "sings over us". A beautiful picture for those who love and appreciate music.
Take care, M-i-m

So sorry, I am the same way... some weeks I can handle it and other weeks i have to leave... stinks!

Noise is difficult! I guess you have to give yourself permission to stay in quiet places. Over time, challenge yourself where you can easily bow out if there is too much noise. I do that at home (two kids!!!).

Tonight we had a sudden rainstorm when I was out in the car and the noise of the rain was deafening (to me)! Have to reach for the earplugs!
"normal" people would not understand that, but I am sure all of you do! :)