Peace

The Holidays can be mixed blessings for people. Some may experience loneliness. Others may struggle with family drama. Health issues. Not enough money. Toxic relationships.  These all can disturb our peace.

Jesus told us we would have sufferings in this life. AND we can also have peace in the midst of it.

The Apostle Paul tells us we can let go of our worries and anxious thoughts. How?  By dwelling on what is true, beautiful, trustworthy, and expressing gratitude for what we have.

When Jesus resurrected, he did not overthrow the Roman government. He did not remove or even confront the Pharisees.  I asked him why he didn’t go back to the Pharisees and say, “nanner- nanner.”  He kindly replied that “nanner-nanner” was not his style. And they wouldn’t have believed him anyway, saying he was ghost or this was a trick of the devil.  But he did say to his disciples and to me, that we can have peace.

It often starts in the head. 

·      Notice any anxious thoughts or worry.  

·      Ask, “What is this about?”  “Is it true?”  “Will this really happen?”

·      Choose to dwell on what you know is true. Choose to practice gratitude.

·      While you meditate on what is true, take some slow deep breaths.  This sends a signal to the heart to slow down which then sends a signal to the brain to calm down.

Tips for having peace with challenging relationships:

1.     Write down what is bothering you about this person.

2.     Write your fears about what might happen this Christmas.

3.     Everyone is wounded. Some who have not healed fully will come at you from that place.

Carry a Q-Tip with you.  “Quit Taking it Personally.”

4.     In conflict, we both have a part. It is easy to see their part. Reflect and own your part. If reconciliation is not possible, then offer forgiveness to them and to yourself for your part.

If you say to yourself, “It is 100% their fault,” then you have horse-blinders on.   

5.     Offer them compassion with strong boundaries. Practice self-compassion. Ask God to help you when you meet together.

6.     Step away when needed. Go into the bathroom and say a few breath prayers. Step outside and get some fresh air. Sit by someone kind and engaging.

7.     When your mind or heart wanders to that unworthy, negative place, look around the room. Notice what is beautiful, true, trustworthy, pleasing to the eyes, nose, and ears. Place your hand on your heart and say, “I am worthy.”

8.     When you return home from the gathering, journal your feelings until the page is full.

When you are ready, release them to God by putting the paper in a shredder or fire.

May you experience more of the peace that surpasses understanding.