St. Joe's Workshop

By Father J.J. Mech

Remaining Positive in Difficult Times

There’s no doubt that this has been a tough year for a lot of people and on a lot of levels. Whether it be perceived or real loss of finances, job instability, unrest in the world or whatever other personal circumstances – as a culture or as individuals, we are showing signs of distress, and now more than ever it’s important for us as disciples to remember who we are and rely on the things that will help ourselves and others to weather the storms we are facing.

When you’re in the middle of stressful events it can be easy to slide into a place of hopelessness. The problem with “hopelessness” is that it can keep one stuck. I encourage you to take time to remember who you are, and what the Lord offers you, to lift you up.

Practice Gratitude: God has blessed us so abundantly, but when we get into a habit of taking things for granted, we can become selfish and negative when things don’t go our way. Everything we have is a gift. Everything – the air we breathe, the family we have, our talents, our clothes, finances, etc. None of this did we get solely on our own merit. Get in the habit of thinking of something you’re grateful for every day. Think of what you do have vs. what you don’t. One way to do this is to keep a “gratitude journal” by your bedside and jot down a sentence or two at night. Another idea is to create a morning ritual when having your coffee. Spend a few minutes considering the positive things in your life, no matter how mundane they seem to you. Tell the Lord: “Thank you.”

Focus Energy on Important Relationships: At the end of the day, what really matters the most to you? When challenged to consider this question, many people would say that the important people in their lives are what really matter. Nurture your relationships whether they include family or friends. Regardless of whether you have one special relationship or many – pay attention to them and let them know you care about them. Don’t forget about nurturing the relationship you have with God.

Stay Moving: Get exercise of some kind to keep the feel-good brain chemistry active. Run, go to the gym or do sit ups on your bedroom floor. Even better, take a walk with somebody you care about! Not only will you move your body, but you will have an opportunity to connect with a valued person in your life.

Obviously, these are simple suggestions and will not work for everyone. If you have clinical depression, it may be pretty challenging to be motivated to do any of them. If you suspect this is the case, please don’t be afraid to seek help from your doctor. You will be happy you did.