Tag Archives: Overcome

Look Up

18 Jul

When things are going wrong, when plans don’t work out, when we’re troubled, overwhelmed and downtrodden, it’s hard to look ahead. We have to process the disappointment, and figure things out. Sometimes the pain of where we are can be paralyzing, and we have to stop for a time before we can move again. It hurts when things go wrong. And when we’re hurting, it can be hard to think of anything but just getting through it.

Disappointment and trouble are part of life. We all wish everything would go easily, every plan would work out well, every day would be filled with sunshine and roses, but that’s not life. That’s fantasy. An active fantasy life is one thing, and real life is quite another. There will be dark days, there will be sad moments, and sometimes there may be devastating developments. When we’re going through these times, it’s important to remember that nothing lasts forever. It can feel like forever, but things change every day. Whatever is driving us down today will be different tomorrow. It might not be perfect tomorrow, it might still be difficult, but it won’t last forever. Eventually everything changes.

When we’re unhappy our demeanor is off. We walk with our heads down, we may talk more quietly, or we may scream and rant. We may feel prickly inside, agitated, and wired, or we may feel numb, depressed, and sullen. Whatever the expression, it’s off from our normal personas. Our friends and family may offer suggestions which sometimes help, and sometimes don’t.  It’s not a good time. But it’s not forever. It’s just a moment. It will pass. Eventually we’ll feel whole again. Our dispositions will return to normal, and we will find happiness once more.

Today if things aren’t going well, or something disappointing has happened, if you feel bad and you’re not yourself, it’s okay. Feeling bad is a normal response when things go wrong. If you’re walking with your head down, and feel heavy with the challenge, look up. Lift your head, and square your shoulders. This will not overcome you. You will navigate it and you will conquer it, whatever “it” is. You are strong, you are capable, and you will walk right through this to the other side. Keep looking up, and keep walking. This is just a moment. You’ve already come so far. The other side is just around the corner.

Finding Happiness

14 Jul

Life can be difficult sometimes. Things don’t go well, we get hurt, or we get lost. It’s hard to find peace in the midst of turmoil, and it’s hard to be happy when we’re struggling. Everyone has times of distress, and we all suffer at some point. It can be a brief moment of discomfort, or it can last for years. It all depends on what we’re facing, and what we have to navigate. But even in the worst moments, if we try, we can find respite from the sorrow. We can find peace. If we try, we can even find moments of happiness.

You often hear lovers tell each other how much they want to make each other happy. We’re often happy when we’re with those we love, but nobody can really give happiness to us. We have to find it ourselves. Of course, it’s easier to be happy when everything is working out according to our plans, when we have more than we need, and when we feel loved, and cared for. But even if these things aren’t in our lives right now, we can find some measure of happiness. We have to determine first that we really want to find it. If we do, then we can begin to do things that will bring it to us.

In times of distress, we can find happiness in the things we enjoy. Perhaps you love the outdoors, and being outside gives you comfort. If you’re suffering, plan to be outside and refresh yourself. Maybe you love music, and no matter where you are, when you hear it you feel lighter. Find the music you love the best, and keep it close. When you feel down, turn it on, and listen. Listen intently, escape the moment, and your spirits will rise. Or perhaps you love animals. Studies show that people who are ill or depressed are improved by spending time holding, and interacting with pets. If you don’t have one, visit a friend who does, and spend some time playing. These are small things that can help you find a little joy when you’re struggling. If you take a moment to identify what makes you happy, and then make it a priority to spend time doing those things, you’ll feel better, even when you’re suffering.

Today if you’re struggling and feeling bad, remember that happiness is still there waiting for you. Set aside some time to do the things that bring you joy. Immerse yourself in the activity, and let the sorrow go for a time. You will find peace. Eventually what you are going through will change. You will overcome it, and when you do you’ll be stronger. Until then, remember that your happiness is important, especially now. Look for it, plan for it, and embrace it. Every moment you live is precious. Make each one as happy as you can.