Have you ever noticed the beauty within chaos? This is a special time for many people despite tragic losses and devastating circumstances for so many others.
I can’t help but see transformation all around you. I feel curious, even fascinated, by it. As a therapist I’ve spent almost two decades helping you embrace chaos. I’ve heard countless stories and witnessed much heartbreak. I feel empathetic as you figure out what you feel, how you think and what it really means for you. I feel proud of you when you figure out how to overcome your fears, difficult circumstances or unwanted situations.
Many of you are still anxious, confused and scared right now. I want you to know: everything will be ok.
No, I don’t have a crystal ball. Nor government secrets. I simply know what’s on the other side of chaos.
Beauty, innovation, teamwork, and integration are created amidst chaos. I’m fortunate in that I get to witness the amazing process of creation. Chaos. Chaos is the toolbox of creation. If you only see what was, what isn’t, and what should be you’d feel as excited as a woodworker without tools.
Open vulnerability as part of communication, interesting coping styles and search for meaning are great tools to thrive versus fester in chaos. Tragedy is never something I’d suggest. It is something you may need to use to your advantage.
Right now people are raw and the authentic connections and conversations you have with them can create a bond for life. Pretension or intimidating offices have been replaced with home offices and living rooms. I tune in to watch stuff online not to hear what is being said so much as to get a feel for who the news anchor or super star is behind closed doors. I trust them based on their home décor not being too perfect and their willingness to express true emotions.
Chaos can be scary and is frightening at times. Yet, it’s also, exciting and expansive. Importantly, God’s hand best works amidst chaos. Your faith can grow. I notice you have more peace, comfort and even a sense of mission when you have faith. I’ve also observed how faith often precedes purpose.
Our society will never be the same again. What aspects of that are a relief to you? What parts of you need this time to just be home, alone or perhaps with loved ones? Perhaps you are morning Covid19 or still figuring out how to trust things will be okay ever again. If you are in this space it’s important to feel the fear, anger or confusion. However, it’s not okay to stay there.
It’s time to recognize all of your emotions. Your emotions are there to help you, not hurt you. Fear means protect yourself. Anxiety means prepare yourself. Anger means you’re feeling violated- you’ve given too much or perhaps had too much taken from you. Disappointment demonstrated higher expectations and perhaps standards exist within you. All emotions are precious- even the negative ones. Peace is the destination as you make countless pit stops.
Negative feelings aren’t pleasant but it does mean you’re alive. A survivor. Among the lucky ones. You don’t know how many days or years you have. You don’t know your expiration date. You can choose to focus on what makes each day special. You can choose to seek time alone- or with God – to create your purpose.
A meaningful life is possible to everyone while living a happy life is more difficult. Meaningful lives are more valuable. How? Embrace the chaos.
Be vulnerable instead of guarded. Authentic rather than perfect. Protect yourself rather than live in fear so you can feel safe as possible within your control. Prepare to overcome challenges instead of live in anxiety over anything. Play instead of be serious. Pray instead of complain. Praise instead of dismiss.
Ask God for what you need because He wants you to experience his miracles. If you only ask him to care for others how can you be thoroughly awed?
Instead of only asking God to take care of others know it’s okay to ask for blessings for yourself. In fact, it’s good for you. It will make you more grateful when you are gifted one day with it. There are jobs being created, amazing opportunities, family visits to reconnect in store for you. Perhaps this article is an answer for which someone just prayed.
Whether you are quarantined for safety, alone in a hospital room on a ventilator, a heroic healthcare worker or with loved ones please know God creates miracles from chaos. Its part of his job description. In the meantime, do yours. Wife, mother, sister, daughter, son, boss, employee, etc.. You are not alone. We are all going through this chaos together and we will be okay. We just have to do the best we can with what we have, and ask for what we need when we need it.