Where oh where can you find God?
God is not hard to find; I know that to be true.
You don't have to wander around or give anyone a nod.
Look to your heart and you will not feel blue.
He's right there all the time--right in your heart!
Copyright Toni Star 2022
Let's be brutally honest; life, at times, can be extremely difficult and demanding. Such is the case for all of us going through the COVID disaster. I call it a disaster because in my mind, it has been a disaster for so many of us on this earth. I just read a wonderful article that lists ways in which you and I can handle this disaster or any other disaster in a more positive and less emotional way. I don't know about you, but I need this kind of information.
First, the article suggests to limit our news and media exposure. The article states, "there are two predictors to how well a person will respond in a crisis and they are (1) how vulnerable they were in their own lives before the crisis and (2) how much news they consumed during the crisis. Then, to get through any crisis, one must accept his or her feelings as normal. "Mentally strong individuals accept their feelings as normal because this is a time for both personal trauma and collective trauma." A person who is resilient, knows that feelings such as fear and anxiety and sadness are normal because "the information is too overwhelming to process at once."
Third, "they--those going through the crisis--" carefully choose the leaders they follow." Those who are mentally strong follow people who display healthy leadership skills and mental health. Fourth, "limit social media and exposure." Social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter are unofficial news channels--that give news based on your behaviors. Fourth, mentally healthy people display self-compassion for lack of productivity. During the pandemic, there are pressures from certain sources that say we should be productive because of the increased time we have at home. But, ask yourself, "Is it reasonable to be productive when we are combating COVID or anything else that is "warlike?" And, COVID is an entity that is warlike!
Five, mentally healthy people meditate. Meditation has many benefits such as anxiety reduction, reduced stress, decreased depression and improved well-being. In addition, mentally healthy people limit toxic people. It is important to limit time with mentally toxic people. Mentally toxic people are very negative and can take a huge toll on your well-being. Whenever possible, stay away from them. Six, healthy people focus on self-care. By focusing on self-care and attempting to be flexible with new routines, they will get through the pandemic and other stressors better than those who remain inflexible. Laughter, connecting with family and friends by phone or text, getting the proper rest and good sleep; all of this will see you through much better during times of high stress. Lastly, mentally strong people know themselves and what they need to feel supported. If you are an introvert, focus on small gatherings; if you are an extrovert, enjoy some social activities; activities where you can gain energy from others and social activities.
To conclude, COVID is a war--it is a war that is still raging but it is a war we can WIN! Follow the above tips and be happy, productive and be successful as the COVID challenge continues. Keep in mind; as Chrisitians, God is in charge--not COVID--
Copyright Toni Star 2022
