A friend of sever-al decades-----a Bal-cony Person of mine, and I lunched. The freedom enjoyed when facing our vul-nerabilities was covered.
covered.
More important-ly, we talked about overcoming our weaknesses. We shared how we can replace them with healthy alternatives. The following were some of points mentioned in our conversation:
I. If we're angry:
A. We can go for a walk
B. We can process it by writing about it in our journal.
C. Go to a local sports event and scream like the dickens.
She goes to the Cal Berkeley basketball games. Afterwards, she feels fantastic.
D. Listen to relaxing music. It is a marvelous way to decompress.
E. We can release our frustrations out by beating a pillow or throwing rocks in a body of water. This last exercise is called a rock funeral. The rock takes the place of the negative feelings we have.
F. Anger reveals we're experiencing an unmet need. We can take action to resolve the unmet need by taking one step that allows us to empty out.
For example, say that we're with someone who is judgmental. And we're uncomfortable with their put-downs or how they blame us for their problems without taking responsibility. We can excuse ourselves:
"I'm sorry, but I have to go. I have something pressing that I need to do."
Do not associate with a man given to anger; or go with a hot-tempered man, or you will learn learn his ways and find a snare for yourself. Proverbs 22:24-25It's necessary if we want serenity. If we want to reduce the level of drama in our lives. One source for sanity is being responsive to, but not responsible for the feelings of others.
II. If we're isolating, we can:
A. Call a friend, see how they are doing. If we want to have a friend, we need to be one.
B. We can go to a movie with someone. We are connecting with others. Not only the friend but those watching the film with us. It's a step.
C. We arrange a time to have lunch with someone special.
III. If' feeling blue, we can:
A. Go for a hike in nature. It lifts the spirit for many.
B. Listen to music we like.
C. Workout at the gym. You probably know hard exercise produces endorphins, which are great for our moods.
D. For some, chocolate does the trick, it has serotonin.
The above are a few examples of healthy alternatives. You probably can add more. You get the idea.
We may not have control over our circumstances but we do have control over how we choose to respond to them. We have many op-tions, healthy ones that are life affirming. Difficult times remind me of the following quote:
When we make healthy choices and take action towards solving our problems we'll find ourselves happier.
Life will be more sane. We will enjoy life more. We will also have an Attitude of Gra-titude because we're making the most out of our lives.
We are also creating a better today.
How About You?
1. What are some additional alternatives that you find to anger, isolating, depression?
2. What is one step you'd like to take today, that will move you towards the solution of your particular challenge?
Here's to encouraging one another,
The Innkeeper
Image: Countryside: Spring Sky by Tim Blessed, © all rights reserved, use by permission.
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1 comment:
Dear Innkeeper,
Another alternative is to reread cards or letters from people who have shown their appreciation for who we are and the positive impact we have had on them. It reminds me that we can be loved and admired by anyone, just by simply being who we are. It's a gift when people can see the goodness within us that can be difficult for us to see and accept.
I am also learning to take more immediate action, perhaps a call to a friend or making a necessary call to take action before my mind begins to procrastinate or worry.
Thank you for the advice, Innkeeper.
TB
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