Why is it that we need someone to tell us it is okay to feel? I’ve noticed over the years, especially in Christian circles, that we seem to think we have to be positive and smile ALL THE TIME. Now hold on there- I’m not advocating inflicting the world with a hateful attitude on a daily basis. I’m just saying it is time to be REAL.
Be HONEST.
Women tell me their struggles and then hurry to apologize. “I’m so sorry. Its been a little rough. I know I have so much to be grateful for. I shouldn’t feel this way. There are so many others suffering worse than I am…” I have heard you say this. I’ve said it too.
Why?
Christian women hear so many teachings against being ruled by their emotions. We’re taught that emotions can be destructive, they can lead us away from the truth, and they can destroy our faith. While these teachings are indeed true, we loose sight of another truth.
God FEELS.
Our great and almighty GOD, Creator of the universe, Lord above all, has and expresses emotion. He created us in HIS image. Would He give us emotions and then condemn us for feeling them? Of course not! It’s okay to feel what you feel. It’s okay to appropriately express what you feel.
And you know what?
You may just set another sister free. Your honest expression of emotion coupled with your prayer and confessions of faith may just loose someone else from their bondage of misguided “perfection.” Think about it. We women are always looking and comparing ourselves and our lives to others. Unfortunately, most often we are comparing ourselves to unrealistic images of perfection. The enemy lies to us: “she never feels that way…you are weak…God is so disappointed in you…” We swallow those ugly lies hook, line, and sinker.
What if what other women saw in you was real?
What if your honesty encouraged another sister to seek help for her depression? What if it set an example for your children on how to appropriately express their own emotions? What if someone in your social group was inspired to lay down her burden of a perfect image and get real too? What if your story could change the world?
You are not supposed to be perfect.
I love this – SO true. I think it’s women, especially, that feel like they aren’t allowed to FEEL. But you’re totally right – there is nothing wrong with being real.
We get so caught up in all the guilt- ick! Authenticity is the best beauty product lol. I think we’ll live longer that way too.
To one’s ownself, be true