Dear LPG, 

We all have times when our confidence and sense of calm leave us for a while.  Perhaps, as we get older, we don’t feel so much of an urgency to address it if it is happening to us because our income is a lot less likely to depend on our being level-headed enough to continue to appear to do our jobs efficiently.  We often make a point of putting on a front when we are with friends, but many may be more stressed than we let on to the people around us.

When life results in a period of brain strain, it might leave us feeling a little like my poem describes, but I hope that my verses today can offer a few suggestions that might help when it comes to realigning the balance of normality…  

Rest From Stress

What is the matter with me today?
I am feeling rather tired, fatigued, low in spirit, confused, discouraged, 
fearful, helpless, hopeless and panicky.

I’ve lost my appetite, I cannot sleep at nights; I’m anxious, weepy and unsure of myself.
Nervous about everything and anything; not even sure whether I still have a faith!
Why am I so down in the dumps? I feel completely lost.

What’s the matter? Am I dying Lord? Please speak to me.
I have never felt like this before.
What? Stress? Burnt out syndrome? A nervous breakdown?
Oh no! Please, God, don’t let it happen.
Jesus! Where are you? Please help me now!
I believe in you; I know you can help; have mercy on me!
Do something, touch me, Lord!
Heal me, restore my joy and give me peace of mind once more.

“Have no fear my child, I’m with you, there is no need for you to panic.
Just stop whatever you’re doing right now, hold your horses.
Calm yourself down and listen to me....
It is important for you to rest your weary mind and body.
For I give sleep to my beloved,
Always eat your meals with joy and give thanks at your dinner table.
Look! I have provided you with enough to sustain you throughout the day.

You have fresh water to quench your thirst and to wash your body
whenever you desire outer cleansing.
You have family and friends to give support, both practical and spiritual.

You have poetry, music and sweet singing 
to entertain and relax your mind whenever you choose.
But most of all, you have my Word in your heart to guide, 
comfort and inspire you, so that you will always be 
a true witness for me as long as you’re alive.

So be patient, take courage!
Soon your health will be restored.
But from now on you must make it your duty to give me quality time
and to obey all my instructions.
You must follow me step by step; you shall live and not die.
I’m the Lord your God, I will not fail you,
Be still, my child... Peace I give to you”.

©By Beverly Gooden‑Wilson

                                                                             Psalm 3:7 ,        Psalm 34:4,        Psalm 127:2,         Matt 11:28 – 30