We all make decisions throughout the day, most of which are pretty insignificant like what to eat or what to wear. But what about more important decisions in life such as which course of medical treatment to pursue?

All our decisions have consequences and impact on our lives. I’m not suggesting we have total control, but we are contributors to many outcomes in our lives based on the decisions we make.  We are most fortunatate if we learn from bad decisions, but we are not always given that opportunity, therefore we have to alter, manipulate or live with the outcome of our decisions, whether good or bad.

My dad is recovering from a total knee replacement surgery. He made the decision to get it replaced based on increasing pain due to severe arthritis. He has a familial tendency towards “bad-knees” but perhaps old injuries, over use and the aging process contributed to degenerative disease and now it was time to do something about it.

What about other decisions, like choosing the right medical treatment whether traditional medicine or alternative medicine. Do we have the right to make suggestions for others based on our beliefs and perceptions of what is correct and what we believe to be true? Why is it we often feel we would make the better choice?

I am struggling a bit and trying to balance what I think is the right medical decision versus what another thinks is the right medical decision. We are so quick to make judgments regarding decisions people make, but it’s not because I know better or want to be right but because we want the best outcome for that person. I am learning that what I want and wish for, the decision I would make for myself or my own family, may not be what is right for someone else. 

As I wrote in a prior post, one thing that I am trying to rest in is trust. Trust can also be relevant to decisions others are making about their own health. I have to trust in their decision. It is not my place to judge. I am not the one in the situation, I certainly am unaware of all that happens behind the scene, so why should I be the one making the suggstion or decision? Of course there is nothing wrong with offering advice if warranted or requested, but not everyone wants to hear my thoughts and opinions. What I can do is trust that we both are hoping and praying for the same outcome even though our approach may be from opposite positions.

So for me, the lesson of the day continues to be on trust. But in this case, allowing without judgment to trust that someone else’s decision may be what is right and best for them.