Photo by Sean Kramer
Written by Tina Kramer
“What is my assignment for next week?” I ask Paul, our therapist.
“Just be,” he replies.
Just be? I wonder. Just be what?
What does he mean by this phrase?
Searching on my phone, I discover this explanation: “to simply exist in the present moment without actively doing anything. . . accepting and embracing your current state without the need to strive, achieve or constantly analyze; it encourages a sense of calmness and mindfulness by letting go of the need to control or perform.”(AI Overview)
During our session, I felt frustrated at my inability to succinctly express my thoughts. My agitation grew until I blurted out. “I will get the A in this class!” My, my. . . that certainly is a telling statement. How sad, that even during therapy, I am striving to perform and make the grade.
Ironically, this Sunday our pastor reminded us to rest. On our days of rest, he encouraged us to “do things that breathe life into us.”
Are you striving today?
Are you striving to please people?
Are you trying to control situations that are beyond you?
Perhaps your assignment this week should include: “accepting and embracing your current state without the need to strive” and adopting “a sense of calmness. . . by letting go of the need to control or perform.”(AI Overview)
What activities do you enjoy that breathe life into you? For me it is writing these blogs, singing, walking, painting and teaching.
Spring is coming soon. What a perfect time to start enjoying activities that bring breathe life into your soul!
“There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest” (NIV Hebrews 4:9-11)
Prayer
Father God,
Forgive me for striving to gain the approval of man. It’s okay to feel broken, especially during times of trauma therapy. I don’t have to know all the right answers. The therapist is not grading my performance. Help me to let go of the need to be in control and allow your Holy Spirit to guide my healing process.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen
healinghope4women 