Whether it’s a scary medical diagnosis, end of a relationship or maybe death of a dream- life’s traumas can leave you feeling helpless and overwhelmed. Before you decide to pull the covers over your head and hibernate or start sipping tequila before breakfast…stop! You are not alone.
These three steps can help you maintain your sanity when life feels out of control.
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Say What You Need to Say. When adversity hits it might be tempting to get cozy at home, and ultimately end up facing a crushing situation with no outside help. The problem with isolation comes when you start believing the little voice whispering in your head. The lying, conniving voice telling you, “Nobody understands. Life will always be this painful. Or worst of all nobody cares about you.” Don’t believe the lies.
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Just Say Yes. For those of us who like to be in control, a chaotic season can feel downright terrifying. It’s difficult for many of us to graciously receive love and support when we’d rather be the one fixing the problem. Would you consider just saying yes? Saying yes to a friend who offers to keep the kids so you can have a couple hours to yourself? Saying yes to the neighbor who wants to bring you some warm vegetable soup? Last week my very kind Chiropractor/friend found out I had lost a close family member, and sensed I was having a pretty intense day. She kindly offered me a 30 minute massage from her massage therapist. Instead of my usual, “no thanks- I’m good!“ auto-response, I accepted her generous gift. It was wonderful. Saying yes is an excellent way to stay keep your head above water, even when the storms are raging.
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Be Still. Tomorrow morning, rather than hitting the ground running, would you take a few moments to be still? Would you wake up up fifteen minutes early, find a quiet cozy place away from the noise and chaos; and spend the first precious moments of your day with the Lord? Psalm 34:18 promises, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” You can believe Him.
For anyone facing a fresh, or maybe not so fresh season of grief, I invite you to try out the new Grief Survivor 8 day study on YouVersion.
If you’ve been going through a difficult chapter recently, how have you coped? We would love to hear about your survival skills. Please join the conversation on the Grief Survivor Facebook page.