Monthly Archives: January 2014

I don’t know which is worse: hopelessly believing there are no options or pitifully disregarding options  believed to be hopeless. Both scenarios, in the end are destined to meet either sarcasm or depression or both. Small, gradual steps are so insignificant to those who are searching for big and immediate results. The small step-taker moves little by little yet over time is much farther along, while the miracle-waiter frets about still anticipating grand intervention and instant results.

Though we reside in these fragile earth-suits, we are not defined by our physical bodies. Though our souls have taken up residence in these temples, they will not last for eternity. Though our minds have some control over their matter, their matter often has a mind of its own. The truth is, regardless of how fit or strong we may think we are, regardless of how healthy we eat, how much we supplement or what bad habits we avoid, no one is immune to it all. Bouncing back may be a little faster, but that knock-out-punch from out-of-nowhere can leave us kissing the canvas and fighting the delirious
ten-count. Prepare your defense now while strength is on your side. Let your counter-punch be the blow that your opponent never saw coming.

Into the arms of another, some run. Up the corporate ladder, some climb. In the hamster wheel, some spin. Under the influence, some escape. Beneath the shame of regret, some cower. Below troubled waters, some sink. Off the cliff’s dark edge, some jump. In the back church pew, some seek. Until at rock bottom, one lands. At the crossroad of Second-Chance.

Fear and vulnerability lay too often, too comfortably, too patiently, upon the threshold of strength and confidence who happen to be waiting, happily and eagerly on the other side to welcome them in.  

Your friends, your neighbors, your co-workers and your family members are shouldering hidden struggles, desperate longings, unknown secrets, painful memories, unbearable regrets, lasting hardship and bleak futures while at the same time carrying out their daily routine as if ‘all is well’. Most of them would find great comfort in the trusting confidence of a sincere listener.

Is drudgery your wake-up call and disgust your good-night kiss? Are your reactions predictable? Is your initial or usual answer ‘no’? Does a chronic negative atmosphere surround you most of the time? If so, have you noticed your tendency to blame it all on others, justifying and excusing yourself for it?  Unfortunately, this type of ongoing perspective not only makes you miserable,  it promotes defense mechanisms, carefulness and guarded approaches in those around you. Egg shells, tip toes and thin ice are tiring and painful. Those around you long for green grass, solid ground and the freedom of bare foot days.      

When you’re ready to give up,
when “what’s the use” echoes in your mind,
when discouragement dominates,
when depression suffocates,
when emotions dictate,
knowing He loves you and is with you, brings comfort.

Comfort for your weakness, your doubts, your tears.
Like a reassuring arm around your shoulders;
or a hopeful, chin-lifting, gesture of promise;
as a hand-holding friend along life’s puddle-filled path.
Hope is found.

Hope that you face nothing alone,
that His strength lifts you out of the struggle,
that all is not lost,
that tomorrow is another day where He waits –
patiently, lovingly and steadily,
maneuvering and navigating your life’s journey
toward Himself.