#is there to help you process your emotions of sorrow and joy; and that’s why he told Charlie he was misunderstanding the teachings when he

[deadpoetsandlivinglegends]

Feel like Neil couldn’t have been any other kind of actor than one in theatre. If he was a movie actor or on social media or whatnot, it would not be the same. Theatre by nature is fleeting. Recorded mediums can be rewatched over and over, creating a time loop of sorts. We the audience can keep going back to a time when Neil is still alive. Theatre however is live and once the play is over, there is no going back except in our memories. It is much like life. We are forced to live in the moment in a theater lest we miss it altogether. It’s not that the poets choose to live in a world where Neil is dead, it’s that they must because the only other option is to die themselves. I feel like Keatings teachings could only be reflected in stage theatre because that’s the only way there can be no time loop of grief. I think dead poets society itself isn’t about overcoming the authority in your life to do what you want but rather about grief, about allowing oneself to feel grief and all one’s emotions without letting it consume you and to keep living after, to live every day in the moment lest you fall into grief and regret that will destroy you or force you into a miserable life

[a-d-nox]

pac/pap: how to promote self-love going forward

take what resonates leave what doesn't - nothing is 100% for you because these aren't personalized so please no angry comments or dms about what i am saying not being a good fit for you or that you "don't claim" just keep scrolling if that is the case. be kind, self reflect, and have fun.

last pac/pap: message from your secret admirer

return to the masterlist of pap/pac posts

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pile one

you might settle for less because you likely get caught up in the drama and find it fun/addicting in the moment. you pursue goals/ideas with focus, but often lack the confidence to back it up. or you wait too long for others before moving on.

i believe love has taught you that you should never settle too quickly. it is best to date multiple people before starting an exclusive relationship. don't get overwhelmed by relationship drama because it will consume you and ruin your day (but only temporarily because nothing is forever - so why stress?). you know now not to let others stick their nose in your relationships - too many opinions will taint your feelings. the biggest lesson is that you learned to cut off anything that interferes with your desires.

i feel like you are jealous maybe a lot of people around you are coupled and you are alone. be cautious because you don't know when you might ruin your relationships with others just because you feel unhappy with your situation. stop worrying about being judged or how often you are rejected - it doesn't matter you are going to find someone in due time (you are worthy). you are loving, nurturing, and protective.

you can nurture yourself by getting out there. you have been alone and isolated for too long - so get out there. stop refusing to look within for what you truly want. ask for support to get what your truly desire, especially in the social sense.

what i feel you need to hear is that you have a strong energy - you are gifted with the ability to receive what you need most from the universe. don't rush or force things - what is meant for you, will find you. you are passionate, creative, magnetic, and attractive. you are also nurturing and dependable. you are one of the most supportive person in most people's life. you have many things - you attract the world and its gifts to you. you don't settle for less - when something is missing you go looking for it. you follow your heart and instincts; you make room for new things to bring joy/happiness.

pile two

i feel like you struggle with maintaining balance in a connection and that might just be the source of why you settle for less. you get too invested in a connection and then you loose track of who are and what you want and need most in a connection. you often find yourself prioritizing the other person over yourself.

love has taught you that things can change very radically/unexpectedly and cause you to question everything. you have learned that you have to let go of certain aspects in your love life, so that you can make space for new things and even new people can better help you grow and thrive.

i feel like you are sad presently or are in the process of recovering from some sort of emotional pain/disappointment. sorrow doesn't last forever. you are very capable of healing - new experiences await you. not all new experiences are destined for heartbreak - have faith.

you are putting a lot of pressure on yourself to succeed in love and be the perfect partner/person. perfect is impossible - so be generous with yourself because right now you are only burning yourself out. to nurture your wellbeing, you should stop judging your productiveness and stop comparing yourself to others - delete social media and take sometime off where you don't have to do anything at all (no doctor's appointments, grocery shopping, etc.). do what brings you joy and say "no" to everything else.

i feel like you need to hear that you are a patient person who realizes that change doesn't happen overnight. you celebrate the small wins with small cute things (for example, maybe you survived a hard week and you get yourself a cupcake). things are getting better so just acknowledge that they are. you can recognize when things have been blown out of proportion or things are being exaggerate for dramatic effect - you are human bullshit detector which is a rare find. even rarer still you have the ability to find a resolution to any argument. you are presently working on not letting other people's expectations of you throw you off of your path. you can make your own path and you know it. you trust that you are capable of standing independently of others, and you are capable of anything.

pile three

i don't feel like you are the type to settle for less than you are worth - i get the feeling that you are slightly cocky about your situation. you might need to practice being humble in a connection because you can come off as judgy or as though you have a superior attitude. alternatively, you might find yourself in connections with people who are very controlling and you might not recognize that you are in that type of connection until it is too late. it is not your fault that you might have settled for less than your worth in the past - you just found yourself in the wrong place and the wrong time and experienced a toxic relationship.

i feel as though you learned that a partner doesn't need to be flashing or exciting instead they need to be stable, grounded, and trustworthy. you have had the flashy connections in the past and it was not the best. you need something more sensual than passionate. something that grows slowly over time so that it lasts.

your intuition is never wrong about the people with interest in you, so learn to trust yourself. you are very emotionally intelligent, so trust that you have the answers you seek about any connection. trust your gut instead of overthinking and overanalyzing.

cultivate your intuitive powers, so you can manifest your dreams into reality. to nurture yourself i sense that you should reconnect with nature and recharge with the the power of the sun. you should also focus on healing any and all blockages that concern your self-esteem/self-worth.

you might need to hear that you are nurturing and dependable. you are one of the most supportive person other's life. you have many things - you attract the world and it's gifts to you. you realize that things can change very radically/unexpectedly and cause you to question everything. you have learned that you have to let go of certain aspects in your love life so that you can make space for new things and even new people who can help you grow and thrive. you know that heartbreak is temporary and that time heals all wounds. you can heal and grow as soon as you believe that you are worthy and that no one wishes to hurt you or your heart. it's okay to be hurt but you have to release that pain instead of bottling it up so you can recover.

[ghoul-bonez]

~When Feelings Feel Like Too Much~

(Platonic! Jake Sully x Daughter! Reader)

Summary: Depression can be suffocating, and suck you into what feels like a pit nobody can help you out of. Except for your dad. He will always be there for you.

Word count: 2k

Author's note: Literally just a vent story yeehaw? Not very well written I just needed to get shit out and why not turn it into an angsty fanfic for others to enjoy???

Warnings: Suicidal thoughts, self harm, depression

~Masterlist~

When Feelings Feel Like Too Much

Sometimes life feels like it’s too much. Everything is too much.

The sounds of the forest and highcamp that you love so much begin to hurt your ears, and give you a headache. Birds chirping which would usually bring you joy made you feel like your ears were being stabbed by a knife. Every slight noise hurts, making you increasingly more and more irritated.

The light from the sun seemed too bright during the day, and the fires at night burned your eyes. The feeling was unbearable, like you would rather be blind than have to deal with the overwhelming pain the bright lights brought you. You were always squinting, trying to keep the light as low as possible, and your eyes were starting to pay the price, they stung when you would close them.

Smells were sickening, to the point of gagging. Even flowers you used to love the smell of were making you feel sick. It made you sad you couldn’t enjoy them anymore, but it seemed like there was nothing you could do to help.

Your favorite clothes made you itchy. They made you feel like your skin was burning, like you were set on fire. Nothing was comfortable to wear. On top of that any touch from your family felt like burns too. Every hug from Tuk, every gentle touch from Kiri, anytime Lo’ak would smack you jokingly, Neteyam’s pats on the head. It all burned.

Your favorite foods started tasting off. Some foods would taste too spicy, some fruits tasting too sweet, some foods just tasted gross in general. The off taste made you lose your appetite every time, like your mom had somehow messed up the recipe.

Your mom, Neytiri. She was always there for you, she loved you more than anything else, just like the rest of the family. She would do anything for you, sacrifice her own life to save yours. You loved her, but sometimes you couldn’t stand spending time with her. She never did anything wrong, but your mood was just too sour and you didn’t want it to rub off on anyone else.

Your dad was the best of all. You were one of his baby girls, and he would never let you forget that. You were so special, irreplaceable, but you felt replaceable. You didn't feel special, not in any good way at least. You felt special in the fragile way, in an anything could hurt you way.

You felt like you couldn’t share your burden with anyone. Nobody could know. Your brain told you nobody would even care if they knew, although you knew that was just the negative thoughts in your head. As those thoughts nagged you you sunk deeper and deeper into the depths of your emotions.

Most nights after you were supposed to be asleep you would sneak off to have some alone time. Some time to process your emotions, on your own. You couldn’t process them around other people.

When you were overwhelmed, everything about being around people was too much. Even the sound of their breathing would be enough to cause a breakdown.

So you sat in your special place, alone.

It was beautiful, and if you weren’t so upset every time you came maybe you could admire it a bit more. A small pond was hidden in a particularly dense part of the forest, where nobody really went. Little fish swarmed your feet as they dangled in it from where you were sitting.

You didn’t really cry, not anymore. It felt as if you had cried all the tears you had, leaving nothing left besides sorrow and sadness, with no way to express those emotions. No way to release them into the world.

You felt numb, maybe that’s why you couldn’t cry. Maybe numb wasn’t exactly the right word, you felt things, but they were bad, and you couldn’t feel anything good. You were never happy, never excited. Everything good was just numb, not there.

You had tried to get yourself to feel something in many ways, but the only way to feel something was by hurting yourself. By running a knife along your forearms. Even then the feelings were short lived. It was like a high you couldn’t stop chasing.

You wanted to feel excited and happy but nothing would evoke those emotions inside you. You used to be so positive, and every little thing could bring your sour mood up. Now it was different.

You know your parents were trying to help with that, bringing you your favorite fruits, or telling your favorite stories from when you were little. They knew something was wrong and you’d be dumb or in denial if you didn’t realize that.

Since they had noticed you had started becoming a better actress, pretending everything was fine. They couldn't know the extent of your problems. They would be mad, sad, and worst of all disappointed. You didn’t think you could take that disappointment.

Even when you realized your parents noticed you were off, something that you didn’t notice was your dad’s actions. He had been trying so hard to help you, from the sidelines, where he was most comfortable.

He had begun following you around more, watching you to make sure you were okay. He felt weird watching you from a distance, but his fatherly instincts to protect and make sure his kids were okay overpowered the awkwardness.

He had even noticed your habit of sneaking off at night. He brought it up to Neytiri who said she wanted to follow you, but he felt it needed to be him. Tonight he set his plan into action, following behind you as you made your way through the forest. He stayed far enough back that you wouldn’t notice him, slinking through the shadows.

When you arrived at your destination he hid behind a tree, observing you. When you didn’t move, or do anything but stare at your feet in the water for a while he decided to make his move. He needed to figure out what was wrong, what was going on.

Your dad approached you carefully, slowly, like if he made any sudden movements you would scatter away, “What’s wrong baby girl?”

You were startled by his presence, but quickly turned your body away from him as he sat down next to you, “Nothing. I’m fine.”

He sighed, taking a deep breath afterwards, “I can’t help you unless you tell me what’s wrong. All I want to do is help you.”

Tears built at your waterline as you thought about what to tell your dad. You could tell the truth, bring forth all of your emotions and admit you had a problem, a big problem. A problem you couldn’t solve on your own. A problem you desperately wanted help with, but just couldn’t seem to ask.

You breathed in, then out, deciding it was best to tell your dad, “Dad, I hurt.” He can’t help you unless he knows what’s wrong.

Jake was still turned towards you while you faced away from him. He moved slowly, gently placing a hand on your shoulder, trying to be comforting, but it was enough to make the tears start streaming. Finally something to make you cry after feeling like you couldn’t for weeks.

He asked, “Where baby girl?”

You sniffled, exhaustion from your pent up emotions was starting to make you groggy, making your body feel heavy but you picked up your hand, and pointed to your head, “Up here.”

Jake didn’t make you look at him as he spoke to you, your responses were enough for now. It hurt you were hiding your crying from him, but he understood you might need some space.

He continued to be careful with you, using broad questions, “Okay, where on your head.”

You mumbled, “Inside.”

He hummed, “A headache?”

You sighed then, turning to him for the first time where he could see your tears. The sight of the liquid streaming down your face, and your little sniffles and hiccups from crying, hurt him more than anything he had ever experienced before.

He brought you into a hug as you spoke, “No my emotions. They don’t feel good. I never feel happy and I feel like everyone’s eyes are always on me. I’m paranoid that the RDA and Quaritch are always right around the corner. I always feel so overwhelmed. It hurts and the only way I can stop it is by hurting myself.”

Jake took a second to think, forming another open question, “So you’re depressed?”

You shrugged as good as you could in his arms, “I guess…”

He just squeezed you tighter for a second, and for once a hug felt nice, not too overwhelming, “Oh sweetheart, I’m sorry. Can I see where you’re hurting yourself?”

You shook your head quickly, “No. You’re going to tell mom and she’s going to be upset.” Pausing, thinking before you speak, admitting your biggest fear, “You’re going to be upset.”

“I promise I won’t.” He hummed for a second, an internal battle going on. He wanted to be open with you, to let you know you weren’t alone, “Let me tell you something, I’ve felt how you’re feeling right now. All of it. I was depressed when I was on earth, nothing seemed like it was able to help me, and I used unhealthy coping mechanisms. I’m also always paranoid that Quaritch is right around the corner. I have nightmares that he’s gotten you or one of your siblings. So I feel your pain. All of it. I just want to help, so please show me and I can help.”

After hearing all of that, your fathers admission, and that you weren’t alone in this you couldn’t stop the sobs that wracked through your body. They were harsh and strong as you breathed heavily and quickly, almost hyperventilating.

Jake didn’t know what to do, it felt like he was paralyzed all over. So he just held you, trying his best to be comforting as he took deep steady breaths for you to copy as you began to calm down after a few minutes.

“Are you ready to show me?” He asked.

You simply nodded, yes, before baring your wrists to him. They were covered in thin lines, some older and more scabbed over, but more were new and red, still barely crusted over by blood.

Jake’s breath caught in his throat, it felt like it was closing up. He couldn’t bare to see them anymore so he grabbed your hands, flipping them back over and holding them.

“I’m sorry.” Is all he could say. Too many thoughts were going on in his head to say anything else. His mind was jumbled, thoughts scattered around, wound around each other.

You sighed, “Why are you sorry? I should be the one saying sorry.”

Jake shook his head, “You have no reason to say sorry. I’m sorry you didn’t feel comfortable enough to come to me with this.”

You sniffled, trying to hold back more tears that wanted to fall, “I didn’t come to you because I thought you would be mad at me… disappointed.”

He squeezed your hands that were still held in his, “I could never be mad at you for this.”

A small smile tried to rise on your face, “So, you’re not upset with me?”

Jake sighed, thinking, “I wish you would have come to me sooner, but no, I’m not upset.”

“Okay…” Was your simple reply, but it was enough.

Jake couldn’t stop himself from pulling you into another hug. As he held you he muttered, “I love you.”

You let out a content sigh, a smile really coming to your face, “I love you too dad. Thank you.”

Now when feelings feel like too much you can go to your dad. You have someone to lean on, and that seems like enough to start recovering from your deep depression.

You will start recovering. You will feel better.

It will get better.

[bedoballoons]

Since this ask is a little specific, I'll let you choose the characters. Basically, the characters of your choosing with a winx fairy reader. If you don't want to do it, you don't have to.

I don't mind! However I haven't watched the Winch series in a very long time so if these aren't exactly like them I apologize! I hope you enjoy and thank you so much for your request!

P.s. This was so nostalgic for me, I remember watching Winx alot growing up and even having like my first set of ships between the fairies and their significant others 😋

─⊰⁠⊹ฺ🍂𝔾𝕖𝕟𝕤𝕙𝕚𝕟 ℍ𝕖𝕒𝕕𝕔𝕒𝕟𝕠𝕟𝕤⊰⁠⊹ฺ🍂

{༻~Winx~༺}

CW: Fluffy! Made the reader have a different fairy magic include as many as I could! (Pet names: Lyney: Mon amour,

(Includes: Lyney, Tighnari, Xiao, and Freminet!)

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

𑁍༄Lyney: <Fairy of light>

"Lyney...are you alright? I know this isn't what you were expecting.." You chuckled nervously, feeling your face heat up as he stared at you wide eyed, watching your dazzling wings sparkle in the sunlight, it was a lot to process to say the least. "You're...a fairy? Like what you read in books? You'd think being a magician I'd be better at handling things others don't normally understand, but I must say...this is definitely throwing me for a loop."

"Well to be more accurate, i'm a light fairy. I can use light magic...I also have a more optimistic personality." His gaze started to make you shy, suddenly you regretted showing him...what if he couldn't accept it.

"A light fairy, you know that suits you. You do radiate a type of light, I noticed that even before you showed me your wings. In a sense, you're a true being of optimism....that's beautiful. Mon amour, may I ask a few more questions?"

𑁍༄Tighnari: <Fairy of nature>

"Does being a nature fairy mean you are naturally more gifted with plants and animals?" Tighnari sat in the bright green grass, watching you with dazed eyes that constantly flicked to your wings. He'd asked so many questions, if you were born a fairy, were your parents fairies, did you know others like you, but he still able to actually wrap his head around your secret.

"I think I'm pretty good with plants, they certainly grow nicer when I'm around and I have control over some...as for animals..I mean I was able to start dating you fox boy~" You giggled teasingly, trying to loosen him back up to his usual self..hoping you hadn't just absolutely shocked him to the point of no recovery.

Thankfully your words helped, "I'm fennec fox boy thank you very much. If you're going to call me a furry at least be specific."

𑁍༄Xiao: <Fairy of music>

"Is that why...your music is soothing to everyone? Why you're able to convey so much emotion in your songs?" Xiaos hand was gently holding yours as the two of you swayed your feet off the edge of the Wangshu Inn railings, watching the night sky with your wings finally out in full view..your true self exposed for him to see.

"I'm not really sure if that's why...all I know is, I have a deep connection with music. I can feel what every note means, hear songs of joy, sorrow...any emotion clearly just through the melody. When I make music...I try to put that into it, make it so everyone else can hear it as well as I can... especially you."

"I can...it makes me feel calm. Thank you for that."

𑁍༄Freminet: <Fairy of waves>

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

"You're a fairy of waves? Like...one with the o-ocean?" Freminet looked away from you, the blush on his face steadily growing darker everytime he caught glimpse of your wings...of you. It was like he saw you in a whole new light, his love for the ocean...for water itself and now you were apart of that as well. It was like a dream he didn't know he wanted to come true...had just done so. You were undeniably the most perfect fit for him now.

"One with the ocean...I don't know if I could say that entirely...but I do know that..the second I met you I could tell you understood how the sea felt. That you were like me when it came to it's waters and the creatures within, I was hoping that finding out my secret...wouldn't be to shocking that you'd no longer want to spend time with me."

"A-all I want to do is spend time with you. We should g-go diving together, talk about everything the ocean has to offer...I want to know more about you. T-to relearn everything a-about the one i-i...l-love."

ଘ(੭*ˊᵕˋ)੭* ੈ♡‧₊˚~Have a nice day~*⁠.⁠✧

[armynoonas]

Namjoon Instagram stories

Don’t Be Fooled by Your Brain As It Is Everyone thinks they want to be happy, but there’s nothing more difficult. That’s because the brain itself is an organ optimized for predicting and detecting danger. It was not made to fully enjoy happiness from the beginning. Therefore, we must tenaciously and intentionally feel happiness. This is the beginning and the end of today’s discussion. Across all cultures and histories, there are six basic emotions that humans universally feel: happiness, sadness, anger, surprise, disgust, and fear. Among them, happiness is the only positive emotion. Negative emotions not only outnumber positive ones, but their intensity is also far greater. That’s why it’s hard for us to feel happiness, yet we can easily feel sadness or self-loathing over minor things. For the brain, which is always mindful of threats and negative events for survival, enjoyable and positive things are not a priority. Thirty years ago, John Cacioppo, a psychologist and the founder of social neuroscience, revealed through brainwave research the brain’s pattern of giving disproportionate weight to negative information. Since then, numerous studies have repeatedly confirmed this. Survival shapes negative emotional patterns Everyone struggles with their own sorrows Cultivate habits of savoring the moment and seeking joy So don’t be fooled by your brain as it is now. That friend has spent seven million years being tense, cautious, and fully committed to survival. Even if things feel desolate right now, you can pave a new path for yourself with a more evolved and refined method. Here are two things to try today: savoring and finding enjoyment. Savor the moment. At first, this will feel challenging. Make it a habit. Simply experiencing something and understanding or feeling grateful for its meaning are processed by different parts of the brain. When you continuously try to perform these separate tasks together, new connections form in the brain. Neurons that used to function independently begin, without realizing it, to team up and work together. They form a "team of experiencing, savoring, and appreciating." If the warmth of a fire was comforting, savor it. If the warmth of your meal felt pleasant, or the weather was clear, savor it without missing it. If you spent a peaceful day thanks to someone, savor it and feel grateful. Spend just a few minutes each day meditating on your daily life, expressing gratitude, and practicing mindfulness to build inner strength. You might dismiss savoring as just mental consolation, but the position of neurotransmitters in your brain is clear. As demonstrated in a study published in Nature last month, when we experience something pleasant, dopamine—a neurotransmitter that encourages us to anticipate and explore the future—is released as if in a competition. If you imagine the concentration of such neurotransmitters gradually increasing each time you feel grateful or happy, there’s no reason not to savor those moments. Number 2: find the fun and enjoyment in your life, no matter what. Albert Ellis (1913–2007), a clinical psychologist known as the father of cognitive-behavioral therapy, identified one of humanity’s most irrational beliefs: the idea that happiness will come to you without effort. It’s as absurd as expecting a YouTube channel to gain subscribers without uploading content, a foreign language skill to improve without studying, or customers to flock to a restaurant without serving any food. Your happiness must be something you consciously decide to discover. Find it in your favorite music, in someone’s voice, in a hobby you spend time on, in physical activity, or in the rounded contours of a child’s cheek. Discover yourself in these moments, saying, "Ah, I really liked this." All these little things are the small and lovely mechanisms that help us overcome the emptiness and despair of life.

If you ask whether we really need to live this way, the answer is yes. That is what it means to be human. We are finite beings who fear disease, disaster, poverty, and isolation, and if we’re unlucky, we might suddenly find ourselves falling under the blade of misfortune. Life is so difficult that, unless we actively search for small moments of fun, we will eventually view our lives through the irrational and distorted lens of depression and anxiety, making them unbearable. Left alone, your brain will carry you along the current of negative emotions and thoughts, straight into the hell of helplessness. So don’t let your brain take you wherever it pleases. On nights when I can’t fall asleep, I quietly think about how countless others are also unable to sleep, struggling with their own depression and anxiety. Sometimes, I feel connected to nameless people through this shared sorrow, thinking, "Everyone is struggling because they’re human." Then, I close the door on rumination, savor the texture of the blanket touching my arm, and rediscover unexpected joy in the familiar sound of my family’s breathing. In this way, I live again—not in the past, not in the future, but in this present moment. Heo Ji-won, Professor of Psychology, Korea University

[250117]

[walkswithmyfather]

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭42:1‭-‬5‬ (‭NLT)‬‬. As the deer longs for streams of water, so I long for you, O God. I thirst for God, the living God. When can I go and stand before him? Day and night I have only tears for food, while my enemies continually taunt me, saying, “Where is this God of yours?” My heart is breaking as I remember how it used to be: I walked among the crowds of worshipers, leading a great procession to the house of God, singing for joy and giving thanks amid the sound of a great celebration! Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again— my Savior and my God!”

‭‭Psalms ‭42:11‬, 43:5 ‭(NASB). “Why are you in despair, my soul? And why are you restless within me? Wait for God, for I will again praise Him For the help of His presence, my God.”

“Choose Hope” By In Touch Ministries:

“God welcomes and promises to help those who bring their pain to Him.”

“A lament is an expression of sorrow or complaint. About one-third of the psalms fall into this category, which tells us that God welcomes these kinds of prayers from His children. In fact, they’re an essential component of communication with the Lord, just like praise, worship, confession, and intercession. Our cries may be full of ache, anger, and confusion, but the One who made us isn’t surprised or offended by our messy, unfiltered words and emotions.

Many scholars believe that Psalms 42 and 43 were at one time a single song. In these two chapters, we find lament interspersed with a refrain that occurs three times: “Why are you in despair, my soul? And why are you restless within me? Wait for God, for I will again praise Him for the help of His presence, my God” (Ps. 42:5; Ps. 42:11; Ps. 43:5).

After a painful, real recounting of his circumstances, the psalmist includes a repeated chorus that preaches His truths to our heart and encourages us to hope in God. It’s a reminder that we can honestly tell the Lord about our circumstances —and that trusting Him is a choice we can make, even during our darkest days.”

[Photo by Elisa Ventur at Unsplash]

[lokavisi]

Rune Meditations - Gebo

Frey was my guide for one. We were in a garden space that I've met him in during other journeys. He led me to a long table that was being used as an altar. He prompted me to look at all the many offerings that had been left there.

I saw fruit, meat, goblets of wine and drink, photographs - memories being shared, trinkets like small bells and broaches, various jewels and jewelry, papers containing poetry and verse, a lute and some larger bells - the gift of music, and a wooden art mannequin in a ballet position - a representative of visual arts and dance. The emotions of thanks, love, and appreciation emanated from all of them.

I noted that the form of the gift is not the most important aspect of the gift, but rather the personal meaning behind them, whether you are sharing an important aspect of yourself or giving something to show you understand the needs and wants of the gift's recipient.

Frey said gifts are given to build relationships, not to build debts. Gift-giving should not be a source of stress and done out of a sense of obligation, but a joyful act born from the desire to connect with someone. He began to note my own worries and stress around making offerings/gifting to the gods. He asked me why. There was no judgment in the question, but rather a sense of sincere care and curiosity. But before I could answer, my drumming track I use to help me enter trance sped up and came to a close.

I feel like I need to do a little more digging, but my initial thought when answering his question is that when I was raised in Christianity I learned a specific way to relate to deity. When it came to giving to the Christian God, my mind went straight to the constant reminder I received growing up: give your worries and burdens to God. Not the most joyful of gifts to receive on a regular basis, even if it does fall under the "sharing an important piece of yourself" category. But my worry about maintaining the gifting cycle with my deities kind of misses the point of gift-giving as a joyful process. Frey's words felt like an invitation to really reflect on my relationships (with deity or otherwise) and think about what I'm actually giving and receiving from them. It also feels like a reminder to share my joys with the gods as much, if not more than, the sorrows.

[galene-gothic]

Hello I wanted to give you some feedback :)) First of all, where do I begin? Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to get this reading from you! I'm truly honored and grateful :) You are so talented and full of wisdom; keep doing what you're doing! I'm going to be honest, I had to take some time to process what I had read, as I was deeply moved and touched by your perspectives, advice, just the whole reading (it made me cry). I also didn't expect that this person (SM) would have so much insecurity and immaturity. I know that this is not their true self (although that doesn't justify their mindset), so I try to have compassion, yet I never expected this person to think and feel about me in this superficial way. Reading it felt like a stab in the back, but at the same time, it confirmed my intuition as I've always tried to see the best in people, especially this person. I also realized by going through the reading that I have a big lack of self-love and respect towards myself by letting this person, and some people in general, walk over me (your words made this clearer to me). Your words did not only make me realize things about myself and this person but also gave me a sense of light and hope. You also said a couple of things about me as an individual which were so kind! thank you for that :)) I'm getting emotional writing this, but this reading really impacts me in a big and positive way. Your observations about SM's behavior and mindset were also very enlightening. It was reassuring to hear that my feelings and actions stem from a place of past pain and that there’s hope for healing and improvement. With this being said, I have decided to focus on myself and walk away from this person (because, like you said, everyone deserves to be treated with respect and genuine interest:)) It won't always be easy, but I believe it is necessary for me to do. Once again, I really want to thank you for giving me this long and amazing reading, spending your precious time and energy on this. It has made me see things from a different perspective! I'm sending you much light, love and gratitude <3

🦢 Hello, my sweetest love. Thank you so much for all the wonderful words and flattery. I truly appreciate it! I understand why that reading would be tough for you to process after all, feelings being involved does make acceptance tough. While, it is truly great as a reader to know that the reading made you cry, I hope that you will never have to shed sorrowful tears ever again. I was really hoping that you would do what is best for you and it seems like you’re doing so now! Our intuition is always trying to help us, I’m glad that I could confirm it. It’s okay to not have respected yourself in the past, however, please make sure to move forward with your best interests at heart. I hope that this journey that you’re choosing to take will be beautiful and fulfilling for you. May all the joys of life greet you at every step of the way. You’re welcome and thank you so much for participating in my event as well as leaving such an elaborate feedback. Sending you a lot of gratitude, love and healing 💗.

With love,

Galene.

[assorted-yeets]

The art of emotional transference

In the intricate tapestry of friendship, I am an ardent believer in the transformative power of the profound philosophy of gentle parenting. Reveling the vibrant colors of the emotional transference, sitting by my friend('s)/(s') side. Immersed in their world, seeking to understand the delicate brushstrokes of their feelings, offering validation and encouragement with ease, like a painter adding the finishing touches to the masterpiece.

It's 2023, dawg; this art’s got its roots far deeper than the realms of conventional child-rearing. Compassion and empathy create a foundational bedrock of trust, allowing my kin to confide their thoughts and struggles in the space of profound acceptance. The joy I derive from being their pillar of support becomes an unspoken, symbiotic enrichment for their lives and mine.

But, soft! and yet, I must tread carefully. Why? For this emotional dance can be like wielding a double–edged sword. As an empathetic soul, I willingly absorb their joys; and unfortunately, so, I also fall a–sponge to their sorrows. To preserve the beauty of this connections, I am still in the process to learn how to establish boundaries and prioritize self–care, guarding against the risk of burnouts and meltdowns.

As the recipients of this gentle parenting, my friends find solace and catharsis in being seen and heard. Knowing that someone genuinely cares about their emotional journey, cultivates a profound sense of belonging and acceptance in their heads and hearts. But I am mindful that this approach isn’t one–size–fits–all, and both ways. An individual responds to the same situation in distinct ways at different given points of time; let alone different individuals in different situations. A lot of permutations and combinations kinda work, isn’t it? On the other hand, us as listeners, may struggle with emotional weight (our and theirs), and it is crucial to be honest about your emotional capacity. When the load becomes too heavy, seeking professional help or directing them to appropriate resources is an act of kindness.

Alas, even amidst this nurturing environment, I am wary of the fostering dependency. Traces of this risk lie veiled in every single interpersonal relationship an individual can have. Just as an art instructor empowers their students to find their own creative voice, I too, encourage my friends to seek personal growth, take responsibility for their actions, hold themselves accountable, when necessary, acknowledge their own efforts put into something, not under or overestimating their self–worth, practicing mindful self–awareness and to develop resilience. A delicate balance is the key to perfection, even brilliance in the relationship with yourself and the other interpersonal relationships no matter how close.

Concludingly, the captivating dance of the emotional transference through gentle parenting in relationships, (be it a standard child–parent or not,) becomes a potent elixir for building unshakable foundations of connections and offering meaningful support. Guided by active listening, positive reinforcement, reassurance etcetera, paints a beautiful canvas of validation and understanding for our folk. However, in this waltz of emotions, we must harmonize our mental well-being, lest the splendor of our connection shall lose its luster. Like skilled artists, being there for our friends with intelligence and grace serves to create a symphony of mutual support and care, a timeless masterpiece if you will.

[gatekeeper-watchman]

Daily Devotionals for April 12, 2023 Proverbs: God's Wisdom for the Day Devotional Scripture:

Proverbs 14:10-11(KJV): 10 The heart knoweth his bitterness; and a stranger doth not intermeddle with his joy. 11 The house of the wicked shall be overthrown: but the tabernacle of the upright shall flourish.

Thought for the Day

Verse 10 - Every heart knows bitterness at times, spawning from sorrow or disappointment, as well as the joy that others cannot share. These emotions are common to all people, but harboring bitterness can destroy us. It is like spiritual cancer that eats away at the soul through unforgiveness. We are commanded to put away all bitter thoughts toward others and yield to God's spirit of love. Scripture is clear that if we want God to forgive our sins, we must forgive those who offend us, even those who would persecute or do evil against us. God only asks us to choose to decide to forgive. If we are willing to do this, He will supply us with the proper emotions and attitudes toward others. We can walk in the Spirit (in His love, forgiveness, and joy) if we ask Him to fill us with the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-26).

Verse 11 - The house of a wicked man shall fall, while the tabernacle (house) of the upright shall flourish. The influence of the wicked hurts those around him. When he falls, his house is also ruined. That is why Scripture admonishes us to choose mates, business partners, and friends carefully. If they are wicked, we will suffer by our association with them. If we make godly alliances, we will be blessed and prosper.

Marriage should be directed by the Holy Spirit. Young people should carefully seek the Lord concerning their future life partner. Many choose a mate based on emotions or lust, and later they suffer because their spouse lacks character. God's character defines what love is because He is love. 1 Corinthians 13 beautifully describes real love: it gives without expecting to receive, it is forgiving and patient, it is gentle and kind; it waits; it sacrifices. A Christian's love for another is based on commitment. Emotions should always follow, never direct, the decision-making process. Those who allow their unsanctified emotions to rule them cannot be victorious Christians because our emotions should be ruled by our spirit man, and not the other way around. God knows what is best for us. If we trust Him, He will not fail us regarding this or any other important decision.

The house of the righteous will flourish because Christ is Lord over their home. Most people are shocked at this statement! Naturally, we all have disagreed about things, but we knew the Lord at the start of our married life and learned the Biblical way to settle disagreements. When we disagree, we both seek the Lord. We ask Him to be our referee and show us who is right about the matter. Sometimes one and sometimes both of us are wrong, and sometimes the Lord has an entirely different solution to our problem. We simply ask God to show us His mind. He has never failed to show us what to do when our opinions differ. We thank God that He is the Lord of our house! Prayer Devotional for the Day

Dear heavenly Father, thank you for the wonderful godly ladies that You have given us access to when crossing our paths over the years. We are most appreciative. Help us to be the loving supportive husbands that they want and need. Forgive us when we may fail to live up to the things that a Christian should exemplify. Lord, help us to be the persons we should be in all of our relationships with others. We thank you for a forgiving heart when we feel we have been wronged by anyone. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit and Your love every day so that those in our homes will always be blessed. We ask this in the name of Jesus, our Savior. Amen. From: Elder Steven P. Miller @ParkermillerQ, Founder of Gatekeeper-Watchman International Groups Jacksonville, Florida., Duval County, USA. Instagram: steven_parker_miller_1956, Twitter: @GatekeeperWatchman1, @ParkermillerQ, https://twitter.com/StevenPMiller6 Tumblr: https://www.tumblr.com/blog/gatekeeperwatchman, https://www.tumblr.com/gatekeeper-watchman Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElderStevenMiller https://www.facebook.com/StevenParkerMillerQ #GWIG, #GWIN, #GWINGO, #Ephraim1, #IAM, #Sparkermiller,#Eldermiller1981

[relationshipreboot]

Grief is a travel companion that many of us don’t choose to invite on our life journey, yet it often shows up unannounced. It can feel isolating, leaving us wrestling silently with emotions that we may not fully understand or know how to express. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, the end of a significant relationship, or even the loss of a dream, the emotional journey of grieving is profound yet often stigmatized. In a world that prizes strength and resilience, discussing our grief may feel taboo, leading many to suffer in silence. This article aims to break down the stigma surrounding grief and mourning, providing insightful advice and practical tools to help navigate through this delicate process. Understanding the Core Issue: The Complexity of Grief Grief is not a linear process; it’s a complex tapestry of emotions that can weave in and out of our lives unpredictably. First, it’s essential to recognize that grief manifests in various forms. Many people picture grief as tears and sorrow, but it can also present as anger, frustration, or even moments of unexpected joy. This multifaceted nature is one of the main reasons why grief remains a silent struggle for many. Moreover, societal perceptions around grief often complicate personal experiences. Cultural stigmas may dictate how and when one should grieve. Some cultures encourage open expressions of sorrow, while others may promote a more reserved approach. These differing expectations can create confusion and isolation for those trying to process their feelings. Feelings of guilt can also accompany grief—guilt that you are not grieving "correctly" or guilt that you might be finding moments of happiness amidst your loss. Recognizing these innate complexities of grief can serve as the first step toward breaking the stigma. By acknowledging that everyone grieves differently and that there is no "right" way to mourn, we can create a more compassionate understanding of others’ experiences. This understanding can foster openness, encouraging conversations about grief that allow individuals to express their feelings rather than suppress them. Practical Tips and Strategies: Navigating the Grief Journey Acknowledge Your Feelings One of the most crucial aspects of dealing with grief is allowing yourself to feel the full range of emotions. Whether it’s sadness, anger, confusion, or relief, recognizing and accepting these feelings is essential. Create a safe environment for yourself by journaling or talking to someone you trust about what you’re experiencing. Build a Support Network Relying on friends and family can provide comfort during tough times. However, remember that not everyone understands grief. Seek out support groups, either online or in person, where individuals share similar experiences. Platforms like Facebook and specialized forums can connect you with others navigating the same storm, offering a sense of community and understanding. Practice Self-Care In times of grief, it’s easy to neglect your own needs. Prioritize self-care activities that nourish your mind, body, and spirit. Simple practices, like taking long walks, meditating, or engaging in a creative hobby, can be profoundly therapeutic. Remember, self-care is not selfish; it's essential for your healing process. Express Yourself Creatively Writing, painting, music—finding a creative outlet can help you process difficult emotions. For example, you might write letters to your loved ones, expressing thoughts and feelings you couldn’t share when they were alive. Allowing creativity to flow can turn pain into something meaningful. Embrace the Healing Power of Rituals Engaging in rituals such as lighting a candle, visiting a grave, or creating a memory box can be therapeutic. These rituals provide a tangible way to honor the lost and allow you to reflect on the relationship you shared, integrating that loss into your life narrative. Professional Support Sometimes, grief can feel insurmountable, and talking to friends or family isn’t enough.

Seeking professional guidance from therapists specializing in grief can provide valuable coping strategies. Understand that reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Real-Life Examples: Finding Inspiration in Stories Consider the story of Sarah, a young woman who lost both her grandparents within a year. Initially, she felt overwhelmed by her grief, unsure of how to carry on. After months of struggling in silence, Sarah joined a local support group. By sharing her story and hearing others, she recognized that she was not alone. The discussions provided her with perspective and practical tips, ultimately guiding her to create a memory journal filled with stories and photos of her grandparents, which helped to keep their memory alive. Another story is that of Raj, who lost his partner suddenly. In his grief, he channeled his feelings into philanthropy, setting up a charity in memory of his partner. This action provided him with a sense of purpose and allowed him to celebrate his partner's life while helping others in need, showcasing how grief can turn into a powerful force for good when expressed. These stories illustrate the fundamental truth that while grief is uniquely personal, it can also foster connection and serve as a catalyst for growth and healing. Sharing our experiences, whether through stories or art, allows not just for personal healing but can also pave the way for community healing. Overcoming Challenges: Navigating the Obstacles of Grief Grief is seldom a straightforward journey; obstacles often arise, hindering the healing process. Recognizing these challenges is vital to overcoming them. Isolation The desire to withdraw during intense grief is common, but isolation can deepen feelings of sorrow. Combat this urge by making small commitments to reach out to friends, even if just to share a moment of silence or a cup of tea. Remember that connection is crucial to mental health. Misunderstanding from Others Family and friends may not always know how to support you, and unintended comments can exacerbate feelings of isolation. It’s helpful to communicate your needs clearly. If you crave silence or need to express complex emotions, share that with those around you so they can better understand how to support you. Coping Mechanisms Some people may turn to harmful coping mechanisms such as substance use or excessive work to manage grief. Recognizing when healthy activities turn into avoidant behaviors can be crucial. If you find yourself slipping into damaging habits, creating accountability with a trusted friend can help keep your coping mechanisms in check. Fear of Forgetting Many fear forgetting their loved one or feel guilty for feeling happy again. Embracing the idea that moving forward doesn’t mean forgetting can be liberating. Honoring the memory of a loved one can take many forms, including talking about them and sharing cherished memories. Conclusion: A Journey toward Hope and Healing Grief is an emotional experience that can often feel overwhelming and isolating—what many refer to as the silent struggle. By acknowledging our feelings, seeking support, and embracing creative expressions of love and loss, we can begin to break the stigma around grief and mourning. The key takeaways are essential: grieve at your own pace, don’t hesitate to seek help, and remember it’s okay to experience joy amidst pain. Understanding grief starts with compassion—for ourselves and for others. If we begin to recognize the complexities of this experience, we can heal collectively, fostering a community where talking about grief becomes a sign of strength rather than a topic cloaked in stigma. In opening up about our silent struggles, we can illuminate paths for others, reminding ourselves that we are never truly alone on this journey.

[musicvalla]

The Role of Music in Creating Lasting Memories

Music is a powerful tool for creating lasting memories. From the melodies that define the happiest moments to the songs that help us process heartbreak, music accompanies every stage of life. Whether it’s the voice of a world famous singer or the emotional depth of Allegra song lyrics, music holds a special place in our hearts. In this article, we explore how music shapes our memories and becomes the soundtrack to our lives.

1. The Power of Music to Evoke Emotion

Songs have the ability to stir up emotions and take us back to specific moments in time. Whether it’s a nostalgic hit by a world famous singer or a new song that makes us feel understood, music has a unique emotional power. That’s why many people associate certain songs with milestones in their lives—birthdays, weddings, graduations, or the end of a relationship.

The lyrics, melody, and rhythm work together to create a sensory experience that lingers long after the song ends.

2. Shawn Mendes and the Soundtrack of Youth

When we think of Shawn Mendes, we often think of songs that represent the angst, joy, and confusion of growing up. Shawn Mendes songs have been a soundtrack to many young people’s lives, encapsulating the ups and downs of adolescence. Whether it’s a love song or a reflection on personal growth, his music speaks to the universal human experience.

Songs like "In My Blood" or "Treat You Better" capture feelings that many people go through—emotions that may be difficult to articulate but are easily understood through his lyrics.

3. Music Transcends Boundaries Through Regional Versions

One of the most fascinating aspects of music is its adaptability. Take Malayalam Despacito lyrics, for example. The transformation of the globally popular song "Despacito" into a Malayalam version demonstrates how music can cross cultural boundaries. When a song is translated and adapted, it maintains its essence while being shaped by local culture.

This ability to evolve makes music a universal experience, uniting people from different backgrounds through shared emotions and experiences.

4. Music for Celebrating Life’s Milestones

For significant milestones like birthdays, having the right music makes the event even more memorable. With birthday music mp3 download, you can ensure your party playlist fits the vibe of the occasion. From nostalgic tunes to upbeat tracks, these downloads give you the freedom to curate the perfect soundtrack for any celebration.

Music plays a central role in marking life’s milestones, turning every birthday into an unforgettable event.

5. Allegra’s Lyrics: The Soundtrack to Life’s Emotional Moments

Allegra song lyrics offer listeners an emotional connection that’s hard to replicate. Her ability to capture the essence of life’s joys and sorrows through words makes her songs anthems for the soul. Whether it’s navigating love, loss, or hope, Allegra’s lyrics give a voice to emotions many of us struggle to express.

Her songs are perfect for moments of introspection and personal growth, offering comfort to anyone in need.

Conclusion

Music is an integral part of our lives. It shapes memories, accompanies us through emotional highs and lows, and provides a soundtrack to our experiences. From the inspiring lyrics of Allegra song lyrics to the powerful performances of a world famous singer, every note has the potential to evoke memories that last a lifetime. Whether you're exploring Shawn Mendes songs or enjoying a regional hit like

[aniket59]

Love Failure Quotes & Counseling Support with LyfSmile Psychologists

It can be difficult to deal with a failed love, leaving one feeling depressed, disappointed, and embarrassed. Many people find relief in reading love failure quotes because they provide words that express their feelings. But getting over heartbreak calls for more than just relevant sayings; it calls for direction and encouragement. To help you get through this challenging time, LyfSmile.com and its experienced psychologists may provide individualized counseling.

Why Love Failure Quotes Offer Only Temporary Relief

Quotes about love failure can help ease your sorrow by letting you know that others have gone through similar struggles. These quotations assist people in realizing that love failure is a natural aspect of life and the process of mending. However, professional counseling is necessary to treat the underlying emotional scars in order to fully overcome this period. Quotes express the emotions, but therapy offers a way to get better.

The Role of LyfSmile Psychologists in Love Failure Recovery

The psychologists at LyfSmile are here to offer a safe, accepting space for healing because they know how difficult it is to experience love failure. You can find customized counseling sessions with LyfSmile that help you in

Understand and figure out how love failure affects you emotionally.

Boost your self-esteem and confidence.

Develop positive coping strategies and maintain a positive mentality.

Though therapy sessions at LyfSmile will provide you long-lasting emotional resilience, love failure quotes may bring immediate comfort.

Conclusion: Finding Strength with LyfSmile Psychologists

Keep in mind that you don't have to deal with love failure alone if you're having trouble with it. The knowledgeable psychologists at LyfSmile are available to help you rebuild from the inside out. Visit LyfSmile.com to begin your path to emotional healing and a better future if you're searching for genuine help beyond love failure quotes.

Contact us at +91 98047 91047 or

help@lyfsmile.com 

Let Lyfsmile help you rediscover joy and peace in your life

[muskantafren]

When Desires Remain Unfulfilled: Navigating Through Inner Turmoil

Life often presents us with moments where our deepest desires remain unfulfilled, leaving us grappling with feelings of brokenness and isolation. These moments can be incredibly challenging, particularly when it feels like there is no one to hear our silent cries. It’s during these times that we must find ways to navigate through the emotional labyrinth and come out stronger on the other side.

Acknowledging Emotions

The first step in dealing with unfulfilled desires and inner turmoil is to acknowledge your emotions. It’s okay to feel disappointed, hurt, or broken. These feelings are valid and are a natural response to unmet expectations. Suppressing these emotions can lead to further distress and even physical health issues. Allow yourself to sit with your feelings and recognize them without judgment.

Finding Solace in Solitude

While being alone can amplify feelings of isolation, solitude can also be a powerful tool for healing. Use this time to reconnect with yourself. Engage in activities that bring you peace and joy, whether it’s reading, writing, meditating, or simply taking a walk in nature. Solitude provides an opportunity to reflect on your desires and understand why they hold such significance in your life.

Expressing Yourself

When it feels like no one is there to listen, expressing your emotions through creative outlets can be incredibly therapeutic. Write down your thoughts in a journal, paint your feelings, or compose music. These creative expressions can serve as a release valve for the emotional pressure building up inside you. Moreover, they can help you process your emotions and gain clarity on your situation.

Cultivating Self-Compassion

In times of distress, we can be our harshest critics. It’s essential to cultivate self-compassion and treat yourself with the same kindness you would offer a dear friend in a similar situation. Remind yourself that it’s okay to have unfulfilled desires and that you are not defined by these moments of pain. Practice self-care routines that nourish your body, mind, and spirit.

Embracing Impermanence

One of the most profound lessons in life is the impermanence of all things. Just as joy is fleeting, so is sorrow. Your current state of brokenness is not permanent. Embracing this concept can provide a sense of hope and resilience. Trust that, in time, your circumstances will change, and you will find new paths and opportunities that align with your true desires.

Building Resilience

Unfulfilled desires and emotional pain can, paradoxically, be sources of immense personal growth. These experiences teach us resilience and fortify our inner strength.

When desires remain unfulfilled and you feel broken inside, it’s important to remember that you are not alone in your struggles, even if it feels that way. By acknowledging your emotions, finding solace in solitude, expressing yourself, seeking alternative support, cultivating self-compassion, embracing impermanence, and building resilience, you can navigate through these challenging times. These moments of inner turmoil, though painful, can ultimately lead to deeper self-awareness and a more profound sense of peace.

Remember, the darkest nights often produce the brightest stars. Allow yourself the grace to heal and the courage to keep moving forward. Your desires may not be fulfilled today, but tomorrow holds endless possibilities.

[mrshcloset]

The Light of Hope

Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Saviour and my God. Psalm 42:11

READ Psalm 42

LISTEN ONLINE

My mother’s shiny red cross should have been hanging next to her bed at the cancer care centre. And I should have been preparing for holiday visits between her scheduled treatments. All I wanted for Christmas was another day with my mum. Instead, I was home . . . hanging her cross on a fake tree.

When my son Xavier plugged in the lights, I whispered, “Thank You.” He said, “You’re welcome.” My son didn’t know I was thanking God for using the flickering bulbs to turn my eyes towards the ever-enduring Light of Hope—Jesus.

The writer of Psalm 42 expressed his raw emotions to God (vv. 1–4). He acknowledged his “downcast” and “disturbed” soul before encouraging readers: “Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Saviour and my God” (v. 5). Even though he was overcome with waves of sorrow and suffering, the psalmist’s hope shone through the remembrance of God’s past faithfulness (vv. 6–10 ). He ended by questioning his doubts and affirming the resilience of his refined faith: “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Saviour and my God” (v. 11).

For many of us, the Christmas season stirs up both joy and sorrow. Thankfully, even these mixed emotions can be reconciled and redeemed through the promises of the true Light of Hope—Jesus.

By Xochitl Dixon

REFLECT & PRAY

How has Jesus helped you process grief while celebrating Christmas? How can you support someone who’s grieving this season?

Dear Jesus, thank You for carrying me through times of grief and joy all year round.

SCRIPTURE INSIGHT

Psalm 42 is one of the twelve songs (Psalms 42-49, 84-85, 87-88) credited to the descendants of Korah, members of a Levitical choir commissioned by David to serve in the temple as singers and gatekeepers (1 Chronicles 6:31-33; 9:19; 2 Chronicles 20:19). Scholars say that Psalms 42 and 43 were originally one song, characterized by the introspective question: “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me?” and the repeated assurance, “Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God” (42:5, 11; 43:5).

K. T. Sim

[the-joy-of-knowledge]

Hi, I am going through difficult times these days. I'm out of work. I wasn't actually doing what I loved. but I don't have the motivation to do what I love. I have to take some exams to get my dream job. I can't study for those exams. it does not come from inside of me. What would you suggest me? sorry for my english. not so good :(

Hi dearest,

I may not understand the depth of your difficulty but I have had difficult moments too and it took me a while to get over them. These are questions to ask yourself:

Reflection

What is difficult for me? Why am I so stressed? What is wrong about my work? Why don't I have the motivation to do what I love? What do I love? Why do I love it? What is my dream job? What does it take to get my dream job? What will i gain by doing my dream job? What if I don't get my dream job? How am I stopping myself from fulfilling my goals? What is within my control? What is beyond my control? Do I believe that things will get better? Who can I trust to share what I am going through?

Guide

1. Process your emotion You need to give yourself the time process your feelings of fear, sadness or sorrow. Cry it out! There are days when I have screamed, wailed and picked myself up. Difficult times hurt in every form it takes. Please don't be too hard on yourself.

2. Deep thinking: You need to logically face the problem/issue. Is this something you have to accept or something you have to change? Go through the highs and lows. Go through all the problems you have faced and how you overcame them. Think of the next right thing to do, don't overwhelm yourself with 5-10 years from now, figure today out first

3. Self care: Get up from the slump- arrange your room, journal, cook, walk, drink lots of water, meditate, or nap. You want to take care of yourself during this time.

I hope this helps, thank you for reaching out. I am here for you if you need someone to talk to you. Sending you love and joy!