Happy Last Monday in April!

I hope you had a productive week and managed to get some rest over the weekend!

This past week or two, I realized that I’ve been feeling a little sad. The sensation is like putting a damper on a candle to extinguish the flame. We know the candle can be used again, but the light doesn’t shine for the moment. As I searched for the underlying causes, I noticed that I was absorbing others’ pain and moods, but I was disappointed in myself because I know better.

And because I also know that beating myself up is never fruitful, I decided to dig deeper and explore the disappointment. The effort provided an exciting foray into my mind and the inner workings of my logic. As I ventured further in my wonderings, I discovered that disappointment isn’t necessarily, a negative experience. On the contrary, disappointment can be cathartic when viewed as a tool to inform. The study of disappointment can provide understanding and strength and won’t derail us if we purpose to learn and grow.   

The following quote from Eliza Tabor, a British author from the 1800s, underscores my discovery:

Disappointment to a noble soul is what cold water is to - Quozio

When viewed as a building block for character development, disappointment provides us with a new perspective that strengthens us as we allow the tempering to intensify. Tempering allows the tool to become more stable and offers unique flexibility when the temperature is raised, followed by a cooling-off period. As a result, the device becomes more valuable, particularly when handled by a master craftsman.

The same applies to our thoughts and emotions. As we bravely seek to intensify our purpose and become curious about the whys and hows of our internal dialogue, we discover new pathways and insights into our process and become available to assist others with their journeys.

So, the question then becomes, who is our master craftsman. Are we assuming that responsibility or looking toward someone greater who can assist us through our tempering? Someone who can inspire us to allow disappointment to fashion inspiration while preventing us from being destroyed.

Scripture helps us understand our relationship with The Master:

“According to the grace of God which was given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and another builds on it. But let each consider carefully how he builds on it.” 1 Corinthians 3:10 (TLV)

“Masters, it’s the same with you. No abuse, please, and no threats. You and your servants are both under the same Master in heaven. He makes no distinction between you and them.” Ephesians 6:9 (MSG)

“This is also how it is with people. The ones who stop doing evil and make themselves pure will become special. Their lives will be holy and pleasing to their Master, and they will be able to do all kinds of good deeds.” 1 Timothy 2:21 (CEV)

Let’s spend some meditation time this week exploring the ways to utilize disappointment to temper our mental and emotional wellbeing constructively. Follow up by looking for ways to assist others in doing the same. Finally, imagine the beauty that comes from tempering and embracing the process. Life will take on a new sheen because of our efforts!

Be Well & Be Blessed!
Lucinda