Guardian

It’s never all sunshine even for the best of us; we all have our share of cloudy and rainy days. This is part and parcel of life here on earth and can be very trying for us in our journey.  Sometimes it seems that nothing quite prepares one for it and at other times it seems that every incident in our life prepared us for that very moment. There is some truth in both statements for no matter how much understanding one gets, nothing quite braces you for the shock when life tries you. Every challenge in life is supposed to develop and inspire you. How you respond to those challenges however, determine if you emerge for better or worse.

People respond in different ways to what life gives them and that, essentially, is what makes us all so different. Some of us come out so disillusioned we have little or no hope in humanity–poisoned by distorted images and suppositions. For instance, most times when we hear people speak in general terms about others or situations, these assumptions are largely based on their own experiences and their restricted interactions. Everyone has his own story–yes, and people do have substantive reason why they draw the conclusions that they do. However, it cannot change the truth that everything is not as it seems; we cannot continue to look at life through a mirror – that is through our own experiences alone; it can only reveal to us a fraction of the truth compared to the whole picture. As individuals and communities, we would experience much development, success and peace if we were a bit more open and had more faith.

It is unwise to be ignorant of the aspects that often make us slide downhill. More so, it is difficult to recognize or withstand those aspects when one is in the thick of it, but you can cultivate the attributes and values that counteract those negative inclinations. This goes a long way in preserving, strengthening and refining us.

The Presumptuous Trap in Fair Weather

This is one of the most dangerous traps any one can fall into – especially when you have had so much experience. It is such a deadly trap because it has its root in pride; we know that when pride shoots up, the fruit is always a fall. When you feel like you’ve been there and done so much that you can spot a situation a mile off, it gives you a false confidence that makes you lie back and …well, make presumptuous decisions. David, even though he was a great man of war, sought the will of God often, always asking what he should do. On a particular occasion it had to do with the same army he had just defeated, he asked God yet again if he should go up, however, this time God’s answer was not the same; he told him to go behind the army (2 Samuel 5). It was wisdom that he constantly inquired of God no matter how similar or surmountable the situation appeared.

 The Depression Trap in Rainy Days

Depression often sets in when we get disappointed with our lot; often it is when we make a costly mistake or when we have put so much hope into something and end up disillusioned. Depression is defined as “a mental state characterized by a pessimistic sense of inadequacy and a despondent lack of activity” (Wordweb).

I think it is safe to say that we all know a bit about this dangerous emotion. Sometimes we succumb to the temptation to search and reason within ourselves for much needed answers, however, in that state, your understanding is clouded and can only serve to confine you to a defeated state of mind and approach.

It so happens that a percentage of our surmise of ourselves and state is true, however, it is usually exaggerated and distorted in this state; for instead of making you free – like you expect the truth would, it entangles you further in disillusionment and holds you captive. Looking away from yourself will keep you from further destruction; we should not derive our confidence and substance from ourselves for we are so inadequate and always will be. God alone should be our source and our strength. Look instead to Who He is and what He is (or can be) to you – not unto yourself. When depression sets in – don’t be too busy to ask for help

Focused Eyes – True Sustenance in both Rain and Sun

Whether in rain or in sunshine, we should always look to our Source and the Author of our life. Do not look like Lucifer did upon his own glory and met his fall (For he forgot from Whom his glory was derived), or upon our inadequacy and smallness like Peter did when he walked on water, for our strength and help is never of ourselves. We must look instead to Jesus for of Him all things were made and do consist.

We must cultivate a daily practice of teaching ourselves to keep our eyes focused. Cultivate a habit of seeking the Master each day with a sincere heart. Whatever the clouds might bring, when life happens, we will come out richer and more developed in spirit.

Image and Etiquette addresses general perceptions, societal norms and expectations and personal expressions with the goal to cultivate social graces, suavity and a dignified presence for personal development and effective interpersonal relationships. If you have questions on Image and Etiquette please send them to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or SMS 08116706879.

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