I’ve debated whether to share this much detail. I still struggle with sharing the private aspects of my life – but alas, I believe this story – embedded in my other message, will help someone.
Recently, I had an anxiety attack while driving. I don’t think I’m typically prone to anxiety, but it might have been triggered due to a higher stress levels lately.
As it happened when I’m driving, before I get in the car now, I think twice whether it’s some place I have to go. Unfortunately, it’s almost always a yes, I have to go – so there is no getting around me driving. The way it manifests itself for me is I tend to drive slower. A lot slower – so I make sure to take local roads. I also pay more attention to my body and my breathing.
This morning as I was driving with my daughter, and realized I was slowing down, I decided to talk to her as I knew that this would help me to take the attention from what was going on. I realized that I had not done something for her properly – so I made a comment and said, “Mommy didn’t do this thing properly, should she be sent home on punishment?” And as usual, her response greatly surprised me. She said “no mommy, I’ll just show you some more love”… What a beautiful lesson. When people hurt or disappoint us – instead of reacting harshly – show them more love.
But on a separate note, if you are dealing with depression and/or anxiety, please know that you are not alone. There are many people who do, and the more I have talked about this, the more I’ve heard responses of “me too” for various things. Please seek help, and personally there are some scripture that come to mind that I will place on my dashboard to be reminded of as I drive.
Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
2 Timothy 1:7 “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
These are specific to me and my situation. I suggest you Google the scriptures and find ones that apply to you.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you that you encourage us when we are going through our not so great times. Father, please remind us that fear is not of you.