Today, I was thinking about how we live in such a performance driven world. We are even driven to act like we are perfect. No flaws allowed. Someone asks you how you are doing. And you answer, “I am doing well, thank you.” But what if you really aren’t doing very well? What if you are having a dreary day with some doubt, disappointment, despair, discouragement, or even depression? Those dismal “d’s” can really try to take you down!
Sometimes we’re afraid to admit when things are less than perfect for fear of what others will think. They might see me as weak or unfit for the position I hold. Perhaps they’ll think my relationship with God is suffering and that I am not very spiritual. Unfortunately the list of judgment calls can be endless. That’s why we tend to put on the big smile with everyone. So what can you do?
I have learned that being real with God and myself is critical. God is usually the one to help me identify my feelings. Don’t deny those feelings, but don’t endure alone or wallow in them either. Who will help, lift you up in prayer, or just listen? Be watchful for those whom God has put on your path to trust. They are out there, I assure you. Don’t be afraid to open up. Oftentimes when you are the first one to be real, you give others the freedom to be real with you as well.
This performance driven world will try to take you down, but don’t let it. You don’t have to act out feelings that simply aren’t real. Be real with God, yourself, and those He has given you to trust. Then watch the dismal “d’s” diminish.
