*Things* hit the fan recently. And, I remembered how bad weather times its appearance very conveniently. Unexpected problems slither their way in at just the right time.

Right when you’ve found rest, motivation, a positive outlook is when chaos comes to remind you that it is still alive. And thriving.

These storms often bring along triggers for anxiety or depression or anger or any other negative emotion. These emotions will pollute thoughts. And messy thinking often precedes messy actions. Which is why annoying things tend to happen when you’re already having a bad day.

Thankfully, I didn’t drop my keys, so, no major mishaps on my end. But still something was off… My mind was slipping from my control.

Because praying with stormy thoughts is difficult, okay. Chasing down thoughts–pointless. Instead of trying to lasso the mind so to have a decent verbal or mental prayer, I’ve learned that a better option is to write prayers down. And write them quickly.

Doing so has showed me that writing brings out mysterious knowings. There are thoughts flying under the radar. That’s what’s incredible about writing (and art): subconscious feelings emerge from our depths and confront us tangibly.

My written prayer revealed an unusual thing about my disposition and God’s position. After listing all the problems, I then write,

I want to feel overwhelmed but I just don’t. I can’t. You are protecting me and that’s what I need always. It’s like You are truly here, telling me that great things are coming and that You can do the impossible. I trust You, God.

Who wants to feel overwhelmed? I guess I do and before you point the finger you may, as well. We’ll discuss that eventually. For now, let’s appreciate how corrective AND protective God is–even against our own thoughts! And how He always answers prayers, even in unheard of ways.

I recently watched a segment following the Trans Japan Alps Race.

There were hungry, delirious, and even injured men running this race through freezing wind and rain storms. One runner says,

Everyday is a struggle. I wonder why I do this to myself. But whenever I have doubts, when I keep making progress, I know I’m doing the right thing.

Whether you’re running a race or dealing with life things, everyday is a struggle. It’s easy to wonder why I put my trust in God after life elbows me in the gut.

But whenever I have doubts, when I keep praying, I know I’m doing the right thing.

 

To a Friday full of Flourish! May the inspiration strike,
Mama X

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This is the second installment for Flourishing Friday, one of my new weekly categories that will showcase creative reflections. I’ll be uploading my art from these posts to @Mama_Equis on Instagram with the hashtag #FlourishingFriday. I’d love to see your creations and hear about your growth!

You can read my first post for Flourishing Friday and see more inspiring photos, here.

P.S. We’ve already undergone a name change. A second opinion found Flourishing Friday better than Full Flourish Friday, and I trust her!