She is a wife, mother, friend, wearing all the hats and juggling all the things. Her life is full and blessed, but in the blessing, she is easily overwhelmed by life’s demands. She loves the Lord, attends church and is a “good” person, but she doesn’t always see how her Christianity solves her immediate problems with worry, doubt and fear. She tries but feels like she’s just missing something, somewhere – and wonders if she is the only one who feels this way.
She has the greatest intentions of doing life well, but often, well, life gets in the way.
Many years ago, I cried out to the Lord and made a request for happiness. Not all his holy roller joy and peace nonsense, just plain old happiness. I am thankful He knows how to answer our prayers better than we know how to make them. I get it wrong, a lot. I want to be upfront with you because I would like to be friends. If you are looking for a person who’s got it all figured out and is typically standing in front of white walls, with the sun shining and butterflies twirling in the air – you probably should look elsewhere. I love those things, but what makes us happy is less about that perfect photo and more about what’s behind it.
I write about wellness because we are unwell. Because I am. Because we should be on the adventure, even if it’s a messy one, to living well. That’s what Jesus has called us to, and he wants us to bring others along. He cares about your mind, body and strength. He cares about your heart and soul. He cares about all of you.
This isn’t a promise for easy. Most of life’s great achievements are made by perseverance. Choosing what is right over what is easy. Choosing love instead of hate. Giving instead of keeping. Eating broccoli instead of cake. Okay, some cake. I want to be super practical and super real life with you. Like yes, my kids eat vegetables, but I make it a priority like every day. Sometimes I make muffins instead of binging on Netflix. But sometimes I watch Netflix. There are always dirty dishes. I get up at 5 am most days to have alone time before my early risers break out of their prison, I mean bedrooms. I struggle with anxiety. Working out can be a challenge, but 15 minutes of movement is better than nothing. There is no easy button.
Breath. Blink. Ask for help. Pray. Pray. Pray. Cry. Laugh. Rest. Do it again. Do it well. Screw it up. Ask for forgiveness. Forgive. Try again. Give praise. Pause. Show gratitude. Breathe.
This is not about perfection but about an authentic pursuit of wellness. And I know we are better together.
Live well friends,
Christy
Psalm 29: vs.2 Ascribe the Lord the glory due his name; worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness. Vs. 11. May the Lord give strength to his people! May the Lord bless his people with peace.
