Growing up, I remember our family going on vacation in Nova Scotia, Canada. During the summer, it is often very, very foggy. It’s sometimes so dense that you can only see a few feet in front of you. When you are driving in fog like that and can’t see, for your own safety and the safety of others, sometimes you just have to pull over, stop the car, wait it out and maybe even consider another route.
Have you ever felt like you were in an “emotional fog?” I have. You can’t see where you are going; you’ve lost your vision. Maybe you’ve lost your vision for your marriage. The road you were heading down with your spouse was suddenly engulfed by an affair, illness, cancer, or an addiction. You once could see a bright future for your child, but the light has dimmed because of rebellion, drugs, or sickness. Work has taken over your life, it’s no longer fun, it’s just tedious; or, perhaps you’ve even lost your job. The fog of finances is now looming.
So, what can you do? Well, there are no easy answers. But here’s a start.
1. Pullover
You may want to stop what you are doing and pull over if you are able to for a few hours or maybe even get away for several days so you can clear your mind.
2. Patience
Sometimes, you just have to be patient and wait until the fog clears. You can’t try to control everything.
3. Ponder
Spend time reflecting on your life. Instead of asking yourself, “Why is this happening to me?” Ask yourself, “What can I learn from this?” Or, “What should I do as a result of this?”
4. Pray
God allows the fog in your life and God can take it away. Sure, pray that the fog will clear. But also pray that He will be pleased with how you handle yourself when you’re in the fog.
5. Persevere
Life is not easy. You will struggle. You will experience pain. Don’t give up. Don’t give in. The fog will lift. Blue skies will prevail again.
What do you do when you are experiencing an “emotional fog”? Please share your comments.
