Grief

Sometimes the news comes quick. Sometimes the news comes slow. No matter how or when it comes, grief travels in the wake of the news. Grief is heavy, weighty, a burden, especially when it involves someone deeply loved. Grief is not meant to be carried alone. It’s too heavy and may last a while—and that’s ok. That’s what family and friends are for, to share the load. Jesus stood outside the tomb of his friend and wept but He did not weep alone. It was a deep, human moment. “ Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted ” (Matt 5:4). If anyone knows how we feel in grief, it’s Him. But His grief did not linger long, as at the mention of his name, Lazarus came forth. We are not meant to dwell in grief, but should leave room enough for it. Let it run its course. Like the song says, “ Every Storm Runs Out Of Rain .” Another song says, “ The storm We will dance as it breaks The storm It will give as it takes And all of our pain is washed away Don't cry or be afraid Some things...

Conquer _______ with a Fortune Cookie.

One reason I find Stoicism so captivating is because they don't waste time with deep or wandering explanations. Stoic philosophy is put forth in "fortune cookie" sayings--short and to the point.

Emperor and Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius wrote this note to himself in his journal. “Today I escaped anxiety. Or no, I discarded it, because it was within me, in my own perceptions—not outside.”

Take whatever it is that troubles you and put in in the blank. Stress, fear, intimidation, hate . . .

 “Today I escaped ________. Or no, I discarded it, because it was within me, in my own perceptions—not outside.”

Interesting how that works, eh?

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