Life doesn't come with an instruction manual. We enter this world with the uncertainty of how things may turn out. How we respond to the world around us may be rooted in false self image and feeling of bitterness. Recognizing when you are internalizing hurt feelings can help you to respond differently to live a more fulfilling life.
"False Self" Image
How we respond to hurt can greatly affect our character in such a way that what we project to others can affect their perception of who you truly are. If you look at Naomi (Book of Ruth) in the bible many couldn't recognize her from her hometown. The reason why is because her feelings of hurt after she lost close loved ones resulted in her character and her behavior to change in such a way that she was not recognizable to even those who knew her. We fall into a path of "False Self" image when we are unable to express in a healthy way how we are feeling. Don't fall into the trap of putting on a mask to hide the hurt you are feeling.
Harbored Thoughts of Bitterness
When you harbor thoughts of hurt feelings this can lead to a build up of bitterness. Bitterness causes the hurt to become infected with anger and constant complaining where nothing pleases you. Not to mention some ailments of the body where bitterness can lead to stress. Think about the story of a man who is never satisfied...
The wife asked her husband how he wanted his eggs for breakfast.
He said he wanted one fried and one boiled.
When she served them to him he looked at them and grumbled, "You boiled the wrong one!"
Makes you wonder what is really going on with the man. You might know someone who is just like him. Where they are never satisfied no matter what. Know that you are not the root of their bitterness there is more going than what you might be able to help.
Below are some key tips for managing your feelings.
- Find someone to speak with whom you trust. Get professional help if you need it. Remember your mind - your body - your soul deserves happiness.
- Schedule some ME time. This is important to help you balance you life and your emotions.
- Don't internalize how you feel. Starting a journal or mediation can help you to manage your feeling in a more productive way.
Your life matter so - Keep It Moving
SCRIPTURE:
"Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you" (Ephesians 4:31, 32*).
Join me again as I share two types of hurt to understand the root cause of hurt feelings in my next post.