When You’re Swimming in Pain

“Just leave me alone. I’m not in a good place.”

Ever hear that? Say that?

Oh, where to begin when you feel yourself drowning in pain and misery? Where do you turn when your world is literally being turned upside down before your eyes? When others have failed you, and perhaps you’ve failed others – or yourself.

When hope is as dust in the wind, and your very soul is exhausted.

This state of perceived defeat is not uncommon to most.  In fact, especially here in the West where society implies that happiness is found when you do this or acquire that, (out there), finding yourself in the trenches of depression, alcoholism, addiction, codependency, pain, regret, exhaustion, hopelessness, etc. is almost a given at some point.

In other words, the worldly or fleshly journey leads you there, forcing you to re-read the same chapter in your life book over and over.  

Listen, fellow human being. No matter where you’ve been or where you are now on this life’s journey, today you can begin to write a book. You can start with a brand-new Chapter 1: Waking Up To A New Reality

Today you can declare a new beginning, a blank canvas to begin painting a new picture that speaks peace, happiness, wholeness.

A new journey toward freedom from inner pain, toward emotional wholeness.

Have you forgotten who you really are?

Our human condition, (the selfish, ego nature) according to the Christian faith, is due to original sin. According the Gnostic tradition, it’s due to a FORGETTING of our divine, spiritual nature. Now, whether you believe that Jesus came to redeem us from original sin, or to dispel illusion and help us remember who we really are as sacred beings, simply believe.

Whether you believe in Christ, Buddha, Krishna, etc., it is essential that you understand that your carnal nature is what prompts you to go after those worldly or fleshly desires, and those desires just won’t bring you the peace and joy you’re after.

Sure, you might get a “feel good” temporarily, but as you know, that wanes and you’re left feeling empty.

Today, choose a new beginning. A new chapter. Begin at Step 1 drawn from the 12 Step philosophy. Admit that you’re powerless over your addiction, people, life, etc., that your life has become unmanageable, and ask God/Spirit for help.

“Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” Isaiah 43:19 

Acknowledge that your pursuing fleshly or worldly desires has led you astray, and most likely toward pain. Renounce such pursuits!  Rather, pursue holiness. Pursue an intimate relationship with your Higher Power. Pursue traits like honesty, integrity, humility, service, compassion, and unconditional love.

You may need some help. I know I do. Left to my own, I tend to buddy up with my selfish nature rather than my divine nature, so just as I do, ask for help. Find some solitude and quiet the mind. Meditate, pray, sit in silence and go within. The answers aren’t “out there”. They’re within.

“Peace comes from within. Do not seek it without.” Buddha

At the same time, you may need some face-to-face support.  As human beings, we’re wired for connection, and I don’t mean superficial connection like you see on social media. Real connection. Intimate connection. Deep connection.

Reach out to someone (counselor, spiritual director, coach, mentor, support group, etc.) and make that connection. Decide to do something different this time toward making the changes you desire.

Begin a new journey today within, and trust that as you keep your inner eyes set upon Divinity, you’ll journey toward healing, and wholeness. True joy.

After all, isn’t that what we really desire?  

“Now we look inside, and what we see is that anyone united with the Messiah gets a fresh start, is created new. The old life is gone; a new life burgeons!” 2 Corinthians 5:17