Thursday, July 17, 2008

Sad Mom

Today I am a sad mom. Depression is a constant battle for me. Medication would probably help, but since I don't feel sad like this every day, I really don't want to take drugs every day. I do have a plan in place for these days, though. I don't just try to tough it out alone.




First and foremost, I spend time with my heavenly father. I make sure that first thing in the morning I am alone with Him. I put in a movie for my kids or pass them to a friend for an hour. I pray, pouring out my heart and every feeling that I have. I do not hold back during these times.



I read the Psalms. David also struggled with depression and I often have my feelings verified through these scriptures. I underline favorite verses so that they stand out during times of sorrow. And David always turns his sadness into praise, which in turn causes me to shift my focus from my own personal sadness to the blessings that God has given me.



I turn on good, upbeat Christian music and I sing out loud. Since I have no real musical talent, I try to do this in private. My kids enjoy my singing, but most adults with ears do not.



I exercise. There is just something about exercise. We have a love-hate relationship. I hate doing it, but I love how I feel afterwards. There is definitely a difference in my attitude on days that I find time to run or spin.



I have a little "me-time". This is usually held in the bathroom, behind a locked door with the shower running. It's the only way I can get away. My kids are now old enough that they don't usually bother me while I am in the shower (note - I said "usually"). Me-time doesn't have to be much more than 15 minutes.



So today, although my body is tired and my heart is sad, I will rejoice. I will choose joy today.

Lamentations 3:20-23 keeps running through my head.

Something to think about (and maybe share with the rest of us)...
1. What is your favorite song to listen to when you are feeling down?

2. What will you do during your "me-time"?

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Mandisa - Only the World

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ywj09jgfI_4

Really helps bring me up

Anonymous said...

There are a few standards I rely on for listening joy when I am down:

1. Mary Mary: I Just Can't Give Up Now!

2. Mary Mary: The Real Party!

3. Martha Munizzi: For I Know the Plans I Have for You!

4. The Verve: Lucky Man (so not gospel, spiritual, etc. but reminds me of what I choose to call lucky is in my mind...a choice...)

For Me Time I:

a. Go for a run!!!

b. Go upstairs in my writing chair and write, meditate, pray...

c. Listen to music REALLY, really loud in my car-driving time!

d. Go out for coffee-java an Jesus...ahhh....