That has happened to me so many times during my life, and I'm sure in your life too. Sometimes when I stop to analyze my feelings, I find out that why I'm feeling so mean and rotten is because I'm not in control of certain situations in my life. Things are happening around me that I can't do anything about. And that feels horrible.
Here are some examples that you might just relate to:
the car needs new tires--no money to pay for them--but it's new tires or an accident's going to happen
your son is dating a girl you don't like
one of your child's teachers require way too much home work, putting lots of pressure on your child
your child has no friends and you don't know what to do about it
you have no closet or storage space in your too small house
your brother has a big gorgeous home with less children and plenty of closet space
your husband is working overtime but you need help with the kids
I could go on and on with the examples, but you get the idea.
This summer when I was in Nauvoo, I was having lots of great experiences, but sometimes not having a lot of fun. I realized it was because I was not in control of my situation. I didn't have a car and had to rely on other people to take me where I was suppose to go. I would make new friends and then they would leave after two weeks to go home. Then I had to make another friend and arrange for more rides......
So after losing my first new friend when she went home, I analyzed my feelings, realized the problem and wrote this song for myself while I went for my daily walks after lunch one week.
I’m Not in Control
(tune: Mary Had a
Little Lamb, minor key)
I’m not in control today
And I guess, that’s okay
I need another’s point of view
I guess they could be right--- it’s true.
I’m not in control today
And I guess, that’s okay
So calm myself and count to ten
Then breathe and count again!
(Major, happy key)
God is in control today
And with that, I’m okay
He sees a broader point of view
His ways are always true!
God is in control today
And with that, I’m okay
His tender mercies help me see
His sweet abiding love for me.
Writing this song really helped me understand that yes, I won't be in control of my situation lots of times in life, but God is always in control. If I rely on his perspective and ask for guidance, he will help me see and understand what I can do to help myself. And he always loves me and sends tender mercies if I keep my eyes open to notice them.
I hope you can get control of one of your life situations or at least learn how to deal with it. When I can't control a situation and change IT, I try to find something--anything I can do that I'm totally in charge of. Then I feel better. Find a craft or sewing project, do some cooking and baking, or read a book you want to. Going for a walk always helps too. If all else fails, declutter a drawer or cupboard. That ALWAYS makes me feel better. And it's so much easier to do when you're mad, too!
Thanks for reading,
Cathy
PS Have you read this book lately?
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