The Uncertainty of Life

A new post will be published each Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

         This week has found Americans living in uncertainty as Washington debates our national debt and how best to handle the state of our economy.  As a people we are, by turns, disgusted, anxious, fearful and frustrated, holding our collective breath to see what will happen next.
         But government wrangling is only part of our stress.  Add to it natural disasters, terrorist attacks, wars, and personal concerns, and it would be easy to conclude that the world has gone mad.  I suppose that, in many respects, pessimism may seem justified.   I'm no expert on political and financial matters, and I'm not a therapist, but I think I can be pretty sure where negative thinking will get us, and it isn't a desired destination.       

         I've asked myself, especially in light of what's happening in the United States at the moment, "What can I do to minimize my stress over our government's finances?"  Personally, I've found it helpful to be involved by studying the issues and contacting my representatives to let them know how I feel.  I have signed petitions and engaged in discussions.  Will it do any good?  I hope that my voice, mingled with many thousands of others, will be heard and that our leaders will choose to represent the people of this great nation, and not their own political interests.

         I've learned in my six decades that taking an active and interested role in life gives us a greater sense of control and empowerment, while sitting on the sidelines complaining can begin a downward spiral to feelings of depression and defeat.  I am grateful for the intellect God has given His children. I am grateful for the many times when I could get up, move my body and my mind and get involved to change my circumstances.
         Politically, I deeply appreciate living in a nation where I can voice my concerns and my opinions to my elected leaders.  While it can still be frustrating if they don't seem to be listening, I know that, in the future, their reelection depends on the voters.  If they haven't done a good job they can be replaced.
         If there is something in your life that is troubling you, consider the resources (both within yourself and outside yourself) that you can access to change the outcome of the things that are happening. 
         Worried that the economy will collapse or that you might lose your job?  In recent years, many people have resolved to pay off their debts, live on less than they make, and save money.  They have stored food, water, and medications for a time when these things might not be readily available.
         Worried about a natural disaster?  I know folks who have a 72 hour kit handy by their front door or in the trunk of their car.  It contains a change of clothing, some food and water, basic emergency medical supplies, a flashlight, matches, and other emergency essentials.  In the neighborhood I live in, we've been taught how to shut off water and gas should the need occur.  We've also discussed emergency plans for how to reach family members following a disaster.  I, personally, love the idea of choosing one family member in a distant location who is contacted after a disaster and given pertinent information.  Then other family members can call that same person to find out my whereabouts and condition.
         Worried about someone stealing your identity?  We all need to take precautions to safeguard our personal information, and many people take the further step of enlisting a paid service to assist them should such an event take place.
         The point is, we have been blessed with many resources and abilities. Getting up and getting involved, being prepared and pro-active, can help us feel better, have a greater sense of control, and enable us to be ready when difficulties occur.  I am so thankful there are things we can do to change our circumstances, and that we have many reasons to be grateful, in spite of the uncertainty of life.   
        (Note: On 7/22/11  I posted a link for a destress kit.  I am including that again.  Along with the above ideas, using the suggestions in the destress kit will help you to feel more grateful and confident as you manage the difficulties you face in life.   www.heartmath.org/destresskit ).   


TODAY'S INSPIRED QUOTATION:
"No one knows enough to be a pessimist."  
                                                                                 Dr. Wayne Dyer