This is the fifth in a series of blogs on choosing an intentional response to our circumstances in unpredictable times. To read our post from last week, click HERE.
We have not been given a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. (2 Timothy 1:7).
When we began this blog series, Kegan posed four truths for us to remember during this difficult season:
- I have the power to control the way I think
- I am capable and resilient
- I can be cautious, while still being kind
- I can sit in the unknown, without living in fear
This was over 8 weeks ago, two months before actually living through one of the most trying times in many of our lives. Has aligning ourselves with these truths been easy? Have things changed since we began? Some of us have lost jobs, loved ones, resources…and our lives probably don’t look anything like they did those first few weeks of March.
I find myself here, at truth number 4, realizing that even after all those weeks, we’re still sitting in the unknown. Waiting for answers, waiting for guidance, waiting for healing, some of us waiting to see friends and family or even go to the grocery store.
And yet, even in the waiting, God is good.
This truth feels like the perfect note to end on, not because we are facing the unknown, but because no matter what, we continue to have hope.
Remember: You can sit in the unknown, without living in fear.
I think our counselor Elisha Wisener says it best:
As we encounter these days of uncertainty, we can know we are not alone. Yes, we are going through this together, but there is also One who is walking each step with us.
However, fear and uncertainty have been proven to have a physical effect on all of us.
Here is a tool you can use to allow the fear and uncertainty to process, while trusting in Christ who is with us:
- Identify where fear, uncertainty, or any other negative emotion are the most “activated” in your body. You may notice a rapid heart beat, a knot in your stomach, or tension in your chest.
- Allow the tension, etc. to be there. Notice it. Deeply breathe. Give space for thoughts, questions, and images that may come to mind.
- As you allow yourself to sit with the physical activation, emotion and thoughts in your mind, turn your attention to the most calm or grounded place in your body. This may be your feet, an arm, or even a fingertip.
- Continue to deeply breathe as you notice the calm place in your body.
- Ask Jesus to meet you here – in the middle of the unknown thoughts, questions, etc. and in the calm reminder of His peace you have found in your body. Just as He met Peter on the water (Matthew 14:22-33), He can still be found in our storms.
We put our trust in the One who has given us a sound mind. Who covers us in love. Who reminds us that we have power, even in the middle of uncertainty, because He is with us.
I hope the past few weeks have given you moments to breathe, ground your heart, stabilize your attention, and offer yourself compassion. I know they have blessed me greatly.
Many thanks to the counselors who contributed to these practical exercises, Elisha Wisener, Devin Pierce, and Skylar Cook.
As we continue forward into this season of uncertainty, we are here for you. Our counselors are here to help you, to encourage you, to pray for you, and be a comfort to you. If you need us, we are simply a call, email, or text away.
To remembering, holding fast to hope, and doing it all together,
The Cornerstone Team
If you or someone you know would like to work through this exercise, or other mindfulness practices with one of our other counselors, or if you need any kind of support during this time, please reach out to us. We provide secure, cost-effective, confidential online counseling from the comfort of your own home.
Invitation
Are you anxious, worried, and stuck at home? We would love to set you up with one of our professional therapists (we have online counseling options). Feel free to explore our website and read through some of our therapist’s bios. Give us a call with your questions at 303-902-3068 or email us at [email protected].
