I once read that the surest way to reducing stress is to list your top three priorities and then live your life accordingly. Stress occurs when our day-to-day reality does not jive with our deepest values.
As the new year approaches, many of us might take a fresh look at our priorities. If the projects in which you are involved take too much time away from your family, perhaps it’s time to cut back.
However, you might instead find that you have the time for “extra-curricular” activities but want to re-direct into projects that make a positive difference in your community.
Here a few opportunities to consider:
Moms in Touch: Covenant Community Church in Wheeling has joined this international effort to pray for local schoolchildren. The goal is to have a group of moms meeting weekly in every Ohio Valley community to pray for their local schools and each student by name. The ministry’s priorities, listed on the Web site, caught my attention: God first; family second; ministry third. To see if a group has started in your community, call Cindy Hayhurst, 304-232-6555.
Ohio County Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition: This group of volunteers, including business leaders, ministers and social service workers, is stumping for parents to help achieve its mission of reducing youth alcohol use in Ohio County. The group meets once a month at lunchtime. For information, call Martha Polinksy, 304-233-2045, ext. 305.
Parent Advisory Council: The Ohio Department of Education is searching for a parent representatives from Southeast Ohio to serve on its Parent Advisory Council. Members work with the department and their communities to improve parent and family engagement in education. Meetings are bi-monthly in either Columbus or Cleveland. To download and submit the application, go to www.education.ohio.gov; keyword search: parent advisory council. Deadline is Dec. 12.
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