This is part two. I want to start out by saying that I don't think this is a simple thing, that I know that there are very difficult problems that affect us deeply. I am not suggesting that we can simply turn on a switch and be happy. What I am suggesting is that we allow destructive thinking to cast a cloud on our lives, and not even know it. I have five kids, and understandably I get tired, it's no secret to all parents that kids will try your patience. The Phrase "try patience" is a tired phrase, it doesn't even begin to explain how parenthood can stretch your mental capacities. So, what happens to me is that I start to get a little grouchy, and become some one I really don't want to be. I have been trying to analyze this process for 15 years, and lately I have noticed that the grouchiness comes, when I start thinking "I'm tired." Or, these kids aren't doing what I want them to do. It becomes all I focus on, how hard my life is, how I just need a break, etc. Maybe I do need a break, but sometimes I get even more focused on the bad stuff when I take a break! So, what is the answer? I believe that it's fighting the thought process. Recognizing and rejecting whatever thoughts are bringing me down. Again, it doesn't mean that I am not legitimately having a hard time. But I can change that subconscious fluff of a thought that comes to me before it becomes a solid emotional thought. I'm still working on the how. What is coming from this is that I need the Lord more than I ever realized. And I believe this applies to all the "bad" thinking (excluding chemical depression and or other mental illness, please don't get offended!) we plague ourselves with. I still have a bad one. I grew up believing that all mistakes are the worst things ever. Consequently, I can look at others and then at myelf, and subconsiously think I am inferior. I know it's a lie. Listen to me all you out there. IT IS A LIE!!! to think you're not good enough. I don't torture myself anymore, but the little thought still squeaks it's way into my brain. There is an endless list of this stuff. We have to learn to fight it. What are the lies you allow yourself to think?
One thing I have noticed as I have been able to overcome these stinky thoughts is that I notice others more, I turn outward instead of inward. Maybe that's the biggest reason Satan whispers the lies to us is so that we will not be able to give each other the support we need. This is a whole subject in itself. I wish I had an endless amount of time to talk about it with some one! Next blog I will talk about how to overcome the bad thoughts, and I would like whoever is reading to comment (now, not later.) and let us know what success you have had in overcoming the "stinky thinking."
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Tiffany, I couldn't agree with you more. I have had some pretty tough trials this year, but I keep on thinking how grateful I am to know that I do not go through my trials alone. I have a wonderful supportive family, and I also know that Heavenly Father is always there for me, to lift me up, and to give me strength when I need it. I am grateful for my trials, because in the end I am a stronger person. Having this knowledge has helped me keep a positive attitude most of the time. Don't get me wrong, there were plenty of times when I cried and wished I didn't have to go through all of that stuff, but that was when I would go to my Heavenly Father and ask for help. Since I know that Heavenly Father's plan for us is to have joy, I know that everything will always work out for the best. That does not mean that our lives are always going to be easy, but it is a comfort to know that in the end I will have true happiness.
ReplyDeleteJenny