I’ve been talking with my DH (yes I am a MRS lj) about this - how people are in anxiety, frowning, scared, angry, etc. And those emotions generally make people not nice to be around. I was thinking - ultimately, the threat of disaster of whatever kind (and we have several looming...) makes people more afraid of the source of all fear - death. So the solution, ultimately, is to depend on God and trust in His protection. Not necessarily that I won’t “die”, since the mortal frame has to end sometime, but that He will take care of me no matter what happens, whether so-called good or bad in the world.
I feel that I am becoming more trusting in God - and realizing that the ups and downs in the world are sort of external to my “real” - IOW eternal - life. One chapter, not the whole book. So I am wanting to be more regular with my spiritual practices, and see the events of the world with a bit of detachment - seeing the wider view, knowing that in the deepest sense, God is in control. He is letting everyone have their free will, to some extent, and so many are terribly misusing it. Well, the law of karma says “as you sow, so shall you reap” and a lot of people will be reaping bitter fruit. But for those with eyes to see, ears to hear and hearts to know, hard times will teach lessons that will be worth it - lessons of humility, kindness to others, understanding that the eternal Kingdom of God is our real home, and that those who harm others for their own benefit will indeed see justice in the end.
Self-sufficiency as much or as little as we can, caring about others, living a prayer life or life keeping God in our hearts - that’s what I’m trying to do. I often feel very sad thinking about all the suffering happening now, and coming more in the future. Whatever little bit I can do to help the people I know - that’s my job description, and to do it for Him, since He loves every soul.
And, I DO need to start (again) exercising which includes yoga, and gather whatever health and strength for what’s up ahead.
And those who act or speak (or write) with envy, meanness, anger, and like to belittle or harm others? I say treat them like a mean dog and stay away from them!!!
I think you are absolutely correct lj.
Since the election things have turned sour in this country.
I agree that God is the only one we can turn to in times of dire trouble which is what I feel our country is facing.
Additionally, self sufficiency is the key. I think many are looking to the government for help and when they don’t get it will be very angry and disappointed. We are seeing it already.
I’m hoping I’ve positioned myself in a good spot [could be better] but it will be hard now to change anything.
Thanks for your great words of encouragement for everyone.