Happy Monday!
December has arrived! I’ve been thinking about the various ways we approach the holidays. Those who have fond memories of past seasons may welcome the holiday spirit with anticipation. Those who have not-so-savory remembrances may struggle with the desire to be joyful and the pull toward pain or disappointment. This year may differ from others due to positive or negative unforeseen circumstances. We may feel the tension in different ways, but as a word of encouragement, we can consider our choices in the midst.
In the midst could be a place of quiet repose, a moment of silent meditation, a deep, cleansing breath, or a fierce run in the mountains. It could be sipping coffee for a break during a shopping spree, lunch with a friend, an intentional workout, or time alone in prayer and meditation. One relevant element to consider is our choices in determining how we’d like to experience the season. Will we allow the hustle and bustle of the atmosphere to drive us to despair or succumb to the surrounding chaos, or can we find that sweet spot of stillness that allows us the freedom to relax, even in the storm?
Deepak Chopra authored this encouraging thought for when things feel a bit out of our control:
You see, we do have a choice in the matter of how we manage our mental and emotional balance. I’m not saying it’s an easy task. However, I am suggesting that our responses to our surroundings, histories, and old wounds are more in our control than we sometimes give credit to ourselves.
For example, we might have learned that crying secured attention when we were children. But, have you ever witnessed a young one crying, stop for a minute to see if anyone’s paying attention, and then begin again to achieve the desired response? It’s humorous to watch, knowing full well that the little tyke is exercising a fundamental exercise to meet his or her desires.
Some of us weren’t allowed to display emotion and came from strict families, keeping children “in their place” rather than exploring the issue’s root. In either case, hopefully, we learned or taught ourselves as adults to contain our raw emotional impulses and find other ways to meet our needs. We learned to temper our responses through thoughtful consideration and intentionality. We may have had to rewrite our narratives to support new lifestyle choices. Yet, in the midst, we found our stillness and peace.
It’s tough in today’s runaway society to find that stillness we so desire, not impossible, but challenging. So many books are written about inner peace and how to attain the same. We have meditations, guided imagery, and a plethora of helping tools. We have sage words, like those of Deepak Chopra, to help us in the journey. And we have Scripture and prayer to guide us to peace.
One of my favorite verses came from a loved and trusted mentor who has now gone home to be with the Lord. Pastor Tim regularly reminded me to meditate on this verse and allow the words to sink deeply into my heart:
“Let be and be still and know (recognize and understand) that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations! I will be exalted in the earth! The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our Refuge (our High Tower and Stronghold). Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!” Psalm 46:10-11 (AMPC)
Many other verses speak of the power of stillness. However, this verse is one of my most treasured and reminds me of how richly blessed we are to have people who speak into our lives, providing strength and encouragement at our fingertips. Enlisting a pause to bring peace and stillness in the midst is a necessary component in our busy lives, particularly during this time of year.
My prayer for you at the onset of this season is that peace will not elude you but surround and engulf you, especially when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Remember to reach out if the need arises. My guess is that many love and care about your wellbeing.
Exercise your right to joy this week and embrace the beauty in the midst.
Be Well & Be Blessed!
Lucinda
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