The doctor said the worst part of the pain was going to be when he took the bandage off. He was right. Something about the adhesive on medical tapes and the effect on the skin…ouch! But a little rubbing alcohol diffuses the discomfort, dissolving the adhesive and releasing the friction. He proceeded to clean and change the wound, and the pain faded into memory.
Two days later, it was time to change the dressing. I anticipated pain again, but none came. Only a little sting that is laughable in hindsight. I almost did not change it because of the fear of pain, but I knew that if I did not, healing could be stifled and an infection could ensue (read: more pain). Facing a little discomfort can prevent further pain, damage, and distress.
To change a bandage is to face pain. There is conflict involved. You have to pull at the tape and bring a bit of discomfort and disruption initially. Then you expose the wound, apply some healing balm like Neosporin if needed, and recover, unless the scab is enough to leave it to the air again. It is part of the process of healing.
I won’t go into what brought about the wound in the first place here. My point today is to ask: what pain are we avoiding today that is either a) unfounded, or b) light and momentary(and able to be helped by little interventions), or c) miniscule in comparison to what it will become if we continue to avoid it?
Answer the question for yourself. It might be a conversation about a sensitive subject that you are avoiding. It might be a little ache in your heart. It could be a project that you have put off. Identify the pain, and then take a step to face it (have a conversation with your spouse or coworker; schedule the doctor’s appointment; start your taxes; pray for reconciliation). You will be amazed at the outcome! Don’t be afraid. Healing comes when we face the pain.