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Major Life Event That Gives Us Pause
There are times in our life when our spiritual world is torn asunder. These major life events can cause us to doubt our faith, and often wonder... "God, why me?"
Other events are not quite as traumatic, but may still cause us to question our lives and the direction it may be taking. Are we ready? Do we have the emotional ability to withstand this major event?
The types of major life events I'm talking about include...
- The death of someone we love
- The loss of a job
- A divorce
- Marriage problems
- Financial difficulties
- Health problems
- Major change in life like a looming marriage, retirement, graduation, new baby, etc.
Everyone reacts differently to these events. Some we take in stride, and others may create confusion, frustration, or even clinical depression. Combine a few at the same time, and the effects are even greater.
Of course some, like a marriage or a new baby, can be cause for joy and excitement. Even a job change can be an opportunity for new possibilities, and better things.
Yet still, we often feel a sense of fear because we don't know what to expect. Will that new baby be healthy? Will that new job really work out?
The questions are real. The pain and confusion is often justified.
It's All About How We Respond
When something major happens in our life, we are given a choice. We can choose to be either positive or negative about the situation. That's what it all boils down to.
But, of course, making the choice to be positive isn't easy. If we have a faith in God, or that someone or something is really watching over us, it makes it easier to be positive. If our religion provides the faith we need to get through and see the situation as hopeful, and not just dire, then we have a better chance of moving on with our lives.
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Reach Out For Help
If we have a religious leader like a priest, pastor or rabbi, or someone to talk to about these times in our life it can be very helpful. Someone who has more perspective, or is a bit older and been through similar situations, can help us to see that life goes on, and we will be able to survive.
Often this is where our religion can play an important role. If our faith gives us strength and can add perspective, we can often loosen the grasp of depression or anxiety that can seem to overwhelm us.
Of course if we don't have a religion to fall back on, then we may feel lost. That's the time to consider real professional help from counselors, or your doctor, if you feel you need to. That is why they are there, and that is what they are trained to do -- help in times of mental turmoil.
And of course this is a perfect time to explore your religion more closely. To call on it to do it's job. Your priest or pastor or rabbi or guru is probably anxious to be of service.
If you don't have a religion, or yours is not working, then perhaps it's time to look around for one that helps during these types of major life events.
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