When the Empty Holes Overpower Our Souls

I’m not a stranger to hurt or overanalyzing. Many hours, days, weeks, and even years can pass, and I still can’t shake it off and let things go in my brain. I allow conversations to replay on repeat in my head. And I let the disappointments and scars make concrete marks on my heart. 

But lately, I’ve realized something: when we feel all the feelings, we can choose our next steps before it gets the best of us.

I learned and implemented that recently.

Before my emotions escalated, I nipped it in the bud and took my mind elsewhere, anywhere but the spiral of toxicity. Luckily, I knew myself a little too well, and it worked. While I let my sad emotions out, I quickly turned it around after being aware. 

Later that night, I couldn’t believe how free I felt, basking in a proud moment of achievement. Not only did I avoid a massive weight on my chest, but I no longer felt as hurt mentally. And although I felt terrible, I also knew I could move forward.

Conversations and silent grudges are cancerous to the mind and soul—and the flames spread like wildfire. 

Recently, I became aware of another instance.

One day, I sat on my couch working. I had an off week, and my routine went out the window.

Soon, I felt stressed and felt all the familiar feelings I typically experience. My throat tightened, and my head spun. As I felt breathless, I took one big breath in and out. At that moment, nothing else mattered but closing my eyes and taking a break.

Unfortunately, I knew my mind was mush, and I was again mad at myself for staying up the night (or many nights) prior. 

When we feel wronged or have traumatic events happen to us, it’s so easy to spiral with fear or hatred. 

Our feelings are valid. 

But, perhaps, it’s also making us sick from the inside out within our human limbs. Sadly, stress multiplies and piles on top of one another a little too quickly in the world we live in today.

When we let the empty holes overpower our souls, it’s time to start anew. 

If this is you, awareness is the first step. Perhaps it’s time to make changes in your life. You deserve to move onto a healthy, new chapter because the toll isn’t worth living a slow death.

Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”

And with God, your next joyful steps await.