Make Sure to Eat Your Cool Whip
Sometimes, the saying, “God only gives you what you can handle,” seems to haunt me. Recently, it makes me think that God must believe I’m a bad a**. I’ve gotten to the point that when people ask about me or my family, I almost don’t want to respond. Because as soon as I utter the words, “Fine or They're Great,” God lets me know it’s time for a reality check. Yes, I have to remember who’s in charge. “You can make plans, but the Lord’s purpose will prevail.” (Proverbs).
Luckily, I have found ways to positively cope when God’s plans don’t always match what I may have marked out for myself. Sometimes it’s the simple things like shopping, cleaning, or decorating that get changed due to illness or commitments. Other times we can feel like we’ve been run over when more serious matters or death come into our lives. I’ve been trying to teach myself to breathe, relax, and just let things be. I’ve also discovered that eating Cool Whip really makes me feel better! Yep, with a large spoon and straight from the bowl!
More importantly, I’m reminded that, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians) I can also rely on the Tribe that God has given me. I know I can count on my Tribe to let me vent, have a pity party, and hold me up. I know that they will be there in person, with prayers, or with things to make me laugh. God has blessed me with special people that care, listen, and always lift each other up.
When our family lost a young friend this year through suicide, I felt rocked to the core. I couldn’t even begin to imagine how her family and friends would cope. I was reminded that we must believe that God has a plan. We must lean on others in our times of need. I believe that her family working to make others aware of mental illness and suicide will help to save someone’s loved one. She will not be forgotten, but will live on in others that help to make a difference.
With the holidays upon us, we may need to be reminded that it is not always a happy time for some. Many struggle with relationships, financials, anxiety, loss, or mental illness. Many keep their struggles hidden well, especially from those that are closest to them. This holiday season, make yourself a visible caring part of someone’s tribe. Be there for those who you may not even know need you the most.
Put down the phones. Begin with conversations. Have those tough conversations with your kids, your family, and your friends. Listen, listen, and listen some more. Be present with your eyes, your ears, and your heart. Be there. Your presence may just be what someone needs. You may make a huge difference for someone without even knowing it.
We must also remember to take care of ourselves. Find a positive way to cope when plans go awry or stress weighs you down. Find a way to center yourself - exercise, meditation, chocolate, or wine. Remember to put your trust in God. “Don’t worry about anything; Instead, pray about everything.” (Philippians) Lean on your tribe. Reach out to others for support and guidance. Breathe, relax, and let things be...and eat Cool Whip..with a large spoon and straight out of the bowl.
.
