When is the last time you experienced a powerful storm?
If you’re like many people, it was within the past week - and the storm was within your own mind!
Maybe something caused your stomach muscles to tighten like a vice. Maybe you felt yourself withdrawing from the world, unwillingly distant from everyone, or unable to resist the pull of your smartphone. Maybe you noticed yourself breathing shallowly or fighting racing thoughts.
Maybe the last thing you would have considered in the midst of this storm was to talk to someone about what was going on. Sure who would listen anyway?
It’s a familiar refrain.
Limerick City before Dawn
Yet - what if sharing your experience with another was exactly what you needed? And what if someone were truly willing to listen?
We all need some level of “co-regulation” at times - the assistance of others to help us back to our normal frame of mind.
Anyone can do this - a friend, partner, counselor, pastor, teammate, family member, perhaps even your barista!
Is there someone you trust enough to invite them into the storm with you? Will you bravely risk sharing the things you’re sure no one wants to hear?
What if they don’t recoil or walk away? What if their willing compassion and kindness can help bring light to the darkness you’re in, causing the storm clouds to disappear and yield to peace?
Healing isn’t found in hiding - it’s found through invitation. It requires two brave people: one who risks sharing their difficulty, and one who is willing to walk through the storm with them.
The storm is weakened, fear loses its grip, and healing comes through speaking the truth.