Finding Stillness in a Chaotic World
This has been a rough week. With back to back reports of police-involved shootings, I was really struggling. Unfortunately such events are no longer novel, but so much so close together was hard to bear. On Thursday morning there was a heaviness about me that was difficult to shake. I had a hard time serving my patients with my usual positive and joyful demeanor. My heart was heavy as I mourned and shared the collective sorrow of my people. When would we be free to just live?
I rarely post anything political, but that morning I knew I had to exercise the boldness to express what was inside. I sent out a simple tweet "Stop shooting us #blacklivesmatter". Later that day, on Facebook, I shared how the recent events had cast a shadow on my day and that I was struggling. That exercise and the support that followed was instructive and helped me to work through the fog back to the daylight.
As I reflected on that day and that experience, several things came to mind that I wanted to share. I hope they can be helpful as you navigate the unrest our world seems to be in of late.
1. It's ok to feel.
We do more harm to ourselves if we keep our emotions inside. Emotions are healthy. Sharing our vulnerability and our struggles creates the opportunity for others to come alongside and support you.
2. Find your tribe
I am blessed to be surrounded by people who strive to make their world a better place. We do not all share the same faith, but we all share a love for our fellow man and desire to enrich the lives of those who cross our paths. Find people you can be vulnerable with who can help you to find that positive focus and grounded center when you need support.
3. Have an anchor
If you depend on external forces for your happiness, you will always be disappointed. As a believer in Yahweh, I look to God as my center. I know that the character of my God is always good even though His creation does not always reflect His goodness. I believe that He is in control, even when things appear chaotic and I don't understand what is happening around me. That morning, when I reminded myself of scriptural truths I feel my spirit begin to lift again. Take time for reflection or meditation at the start of the day. This gives you something you can tap into during challenging moments.
4. Practice gratitude
"In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you"(1 Thessalonians 5:18 KJV). This verse does not mean that I have to be thankful for every situation or circumstance. It does mean that I am to be intentional about seeking out opportunities to express gratitude to my Heavenly Father. On this day I was thankful that my husband was healthy and whole and that I was able to return home safely to him. Practice gratitude by taking time at the end of every day to reflect on something you are thankful for.
5. Take a media sabbath
My husband and I keep the weekly seventh day sabbath. This is a day when we rest from work and aim not to make anyone else work on our behalf. Sometimes to get through trying times, you need to take give yourself a mental sabbath and take a break from the media. Our media tends to bombard us with images and descriptions of traumatic events on repeat. I noticed that happening Thursday morning and changed the radio channel to a worship music station. Allowing your mind to be bombarded with descriptions of violent events on repeat, stands in the way of healing. You can't process and walk through if your mind is continuously being assaulted. It's ok to step away from the news and social media for a period of time. I would encourage you to consider taking one day a week to switch off.
6. It's ok to have hard conversations
Discussions about race, culture, class and religion aren't easy, but they are important. Learning about each other and gaining understanding is part of how I believe we will learn to respect each other and live together more harmoniously. Be willing to listen with humility.
7. Be kind to yourself and others
It's OK to have rough days and rough patches. Experience it, learn from and walk through it. That's part of what makes us human.Sending love and light and aspirations for a better future filled with love and abundance. Shalom.