Coping

The dictionary defines "coping " as the covering course of a wall,usually with a sloping top . It can also mean struggling or contending , usually on equal terms or with some success . Strangely enough , although one term is for construction and the other is psychological , they may not be all that different . The sloping top of the first definition allows the rain and debris to be directed away from the vulnerable joints and innards of the wall . It's function is to protect the wall from damage , to deflect the harmful elements . Funny , that is the function of the other kind of coping , too ! When faced with what TV life coaches call "challenges ", we have choices . Some choose denial or numbing techniques of countless varieties . These choices do little to protect our "wall". Placing the "challenge " in its proper perspective , doing what you can to solve it and then knowing when to step away seem to better fulfill the definition . The times I've felt most comforted and empowered are those , when after resolving a problem to the best of my ability , a positive action or project is undertaken . A case in point might be the day I had to go to an emotionally frought appointment .Although dreading the ordeal , I noticed while driving that the river was smooth as a mirror . Pulling over to the side of the road , I was able to photograph the breathtaking view . The beauty of the day sustained and strengthened me . Somehow , I'm realizing , the major projects in my home seem to result from challenging situations in my life ! As the time passes and more courses are added to my "wall " , the need for good coping never goes away . The trick is to develop skills that protect the integrity of the structure and add to its strength before the damage can occur. Growing up is so "challenging " !