The enemy of our souls would like for us to focus on the external – the list is quite exhausting; however, a few examples are the way we look, or don’t…the size of our bag, bank account…and waist…the model and make and year of our vehicles, how much we place on our plates at a gathering, the way we believe others view us and on and on…
That dangerous journey down comparison lane leads to a sharp and unexpected turn (loop, really) on anxiety avenue which then has us careening down a noisy and bumpy few roads of fear and typically ends on an all-too-familiar but extremely unpleasant road of despair and then weS typically on repeat again.
The Divine focuses on the internal and invites us to do the same.
Whispers, on the daily, from The Divine:
I love you (exactly as you are).
You are adored (all day, eryDay!)
You are an image bearer…a reflection of all that is Divine.
IF we surrender to this journey of feeling it ALL, we’re given the opportunity to face each feeling. Feelings are valid and what is acknowledged/felt has the potential to be healed. I believe, in this human experience, we are healed and ever-healing as we choose therapy, art (dancing, drawing, singing, humming, rocking, cradling ourselves etc), time in nature (soaking in the sun, walking, jogging, running, reading), support groups, mindfulness, workshops/seminars, retreats, time for deep breathing, laughter (watching shorts/comedy), tears (just allowing ourselves to cry, sit and cry or lie down and cry, just cry…pour it all out), classes (anything that interests us now), primal screaming (into a pillow so as not to scare others!).
My experience has been that when we open our hearts and minds, the path will yield realizations for review, we can then implement what best helps (it can/may look different for each of us). We can uniquely experience the very essence of Solace, the Presence of the Prince of Peace/Yeshu, the fierce and kind, Holy Spirit/Amma and the Eternal embodiment of Love, Abba/Father.
Sometimes the journey can feel dark, darker than imaginable. Sitting with the dark has been healing for me and simultaneously, My Word is a lamp to your feet and a Light to the path (verse 105 in chapter 119 of the Book of Psalms in The Holy Bible). I learned that verse when I was quite young and through the years have been comforted by the Presence of The Word, especially in moments that seemed to come at me directly from hell. I hope it is a comfort to you as well, dearHeart.
Typically, the Light has been just enough for the next step. A reminder to Trust Heaven…Trust The Divine whispers…Trust the Voice of fierce and protective and Sweet Holy Spirit/Amma…Trust the impressions of Heaven on our hearts…Trust that cup of coffee, chai or hot chocolate! Even in the dark, I do not ask for clarity because I have committed to daily (actually, moment by moment) walk by faith. I Ask for an increase in Trust. I Ask for Fortitude and Wisdom and Joy in the journey.
Move forward, brave one, not because of clarity, but because of confidence in the One who carries when we can’t even stand, calms us when we can’t see/understand and comforts us while creating a way when there seems to be no way.
Feet first. Stand – if all you can do is stand…simply stand.
Face the feelings. Share – in a journal, with a group, in therapy.
Feel the entirety of it all. Suppress no more – let all the feelings surface.
Find healing of some sort for your heart and mind. Skim the surface, be rid of what’s not helpful. Screen and sift and secure what’s necessary for healing and health, overall.
Forward – step forward even if you can take just 1 step. It is significant -1 step! Here in it all, with you.
Common Day Hero: babyAriya, you bring such joy to everyone. The timing of the Divine sending you to our world has restored HOPE (Heavenly Oxygen Permeating Earth), renewed trust and redeemed joy to us. You are deeply loved and we pray your light continues to shine brightly always. Today, I dedicate this post to you…your very existence has us healing and moving forward.