The Stress Factor

     It is possible to get so used to living with stress that we don't recognize it. I was talking with a friend recently about some things, and she said, "You know, you live with a lot of stress in your life."
     Isn't it funny that we know some things in our heads, but until someone says the words, we can minimize and deny truth. I do not have my head in the sand; I know my life has always been on the edge. And sometimes my methods of dealing with stress have been self-injurious.
       Being pastors, seminary students, missionaries, former missionaries, parents, grandparents, caregiver, and more --- add it up: stress situations.
     I have worked hard to be more positive, to work on the issues that led me to extreme anger and negativity, and to do what Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and heavy-laden (stressed), and I will give you rest."
     I have learned to laugh uproariously and grieve profoundly. I look for humor; I write about humor. I let myself cry when I need to, and allow my sadness to be vented.
     I am thankful that Jesus knows me best...a story that has always gripped me is His triumphal entry into Jerusalem. People were shouting, laughing, placing palm branches and cloaks in the path for His donkey to walk on. The people were so joyful they offended the religious people...and Jesus told them: "If these people are quiet, the rocks will cry out ... in praise."
     They reached the top of the hill overlooking Jerusalem. Jesus, who had been laughing with the others, suddenly starts weeping in deep sorrow.
     Jesus felt His feelings, and that's how we are also made --- to express our feelings, not keep them stuffed until they make us ill.
     Life will always be stressful. My goal: allow Him to help me cope with it.
     What about you? How do you deal with stress? Is it helpful or hurtful?