Lately, I’ve had to do battle with a sour mood.  You know the feeling.  Little and big things just aren’t going as well as expected.  Discouragement raises its nasty head, doubts take a bite out of your resolve, that technology you need to master eludes your old brain, so many things to be done, but where to start? Why does it take so long to find that missing piece?  Who to ask for help? Where did my patience go?  Why don’t I have enough faith?  How do I get a positive attitude back?

I am learning a few tricks for conquering that griping, whining, accusing, complaining voice in my head.  Hope these help you when you’re feeling down.

1.  Enjoy what I have right now.   I am reminding myself to savor what is good, enjoyable, happy, comfortable, and beautiful, concentrating on the many things I have instead of the things I don’t.  I’m taking the time to deliberately stop and deeply enjoy my many blessings.  You know how you feel when someone thoroughly enjoys a gift you’ve given them?  You like to hear/see how much pleasure comes from what you gave. You would feel hurt if the recipient opened your gift and just tossed it aside to open the next gift.  We forgive it in the birthday child at her party because she is immature and will learn later to appreciate each gift and express thanks to the giver.  I’m afraid sometimes I act like that birthday child.  God gives me so many gifts that I don’t appreciate each one.  Instead of remembering to thank him for the gift, I’m on to the next thing and wondering why I feel frustrated.  I think God likes to see us reveling in each of his gifts, taking the time to enjoy them and express gratitude for them.  I’m taking time to savor the sweet, fresh berries I’m picking this time of year.  What a blessing to have an abundance of delicious, healthy berries to enjoy throughout the day.  What makes it even better is that a thoughtful friend made these berry pickings possible.  The berries are sweeter because of our friendship.  Thank you, Lord, for friends and for berries.

 “And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”  Ephesians 5:20

2.  Go outside.  I’m getting outside daily.  Each of us has different preferences for how to spend outdoor time.  I love to garden.  It has been hard to have no garden this year.  But this week Husband rototilled a tiny garden spot for me.  (Thanks, Joe for the great gift of a big rototiller!  It’s being used every day now.)  Immediately,  I was able to plant golden raspberry starts given to me by two friends.  I love the soil, living things, fresh air and the feeling of accomplishing something.  Others love to walk or run outdoors, or play a sport, or ride an animal or machine.  My point is, get outside for fresh air and a change of scenery.  Even in the rain, I’ve found enjoyment in being outdoors.  Making it a habit to be outdoors at least a short time every day is healthy physically, mentally and emotionally.

3.  Accept the situation as it is.  I’m learning to accept God’s, “No, not just yet.”  I’m trusting that in God’s good time, what I need will be provided.  I often repeat from the bottom of my heart, “Lord, I’m so glad you’re in charge.”  I don’t have the insight or foresight to know what’s best, but God does.  I can relax knowing he is working everything for my good.  I remember that the situation could be much worse and that I have more than 99% of the world’s inhabitants.  I’ve already received far more favor than I deserve.  I just think of our friends in the jungle of a third world country where we lived and suddenly my problems and frustrations are very small indeed.

“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”  Romans 8:28

4.  Others centered.  I’m making sure that my accounts are up-to-date.  What I mean is that I’m taking care of my responsibilities to others.  Things like fulfilling promises I made, keeping commitments to family, doing a kindness, and cultivating friendships, keep me occupied and satisfied in giving to others.  What a lift to know that I invested in the lives of others and made them happy.

 “always try to do good to each other and to all people.”   Thessalonians 5:15

5.  Rest.  I’m learning not to feel guilty for taking a break.  At this time in my life, it’s ok to slack off once in a while and enjoy the fact that I have an hour to just read the news and a few articles of interest.  Instead of feeling guilty, I’m learning that breaks rejuvenate and enable me to be more productive.  This morning we slept in.  Normally, I would be beating myself up for this laziness.  But this morning I simply was thankful for the luxury.