All the other things

© 2012 Julie Crane All rights reserved

I will turn their mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow. (Jeremiah 31:13)

I see it all around. People feel limited because of some thing they can no longer have. For many it is sugar because of diabetes. For some it is dairy products. Gluten. Or the challenges of sticking to a diet and exercise routine. Or fighting off boredom, even depression.

You can make yourself miserable focusing on what you cannot enjoy (“have”). It will surely grow and multiply until you fold under the pressure and weight of it all. Or you can choose, yes, choose, what else is available to focus on. There are 101 other truly wonderful things to eat and taste and enjoy. If you can’t run – walk. Restless? Struggling to stick to a plan? In all these things, you can create a list of options to refer to. There are 101 other things. You are not trapped. Cornered. Stuck as much as you think you are.

Search the web. 101 recipes for diabetics. Those lactose intolerant. Those needing gluten free. Preview menus before visiting a restaurant. Bring options that work for you to a potluck. And 101 things to do when you are restless, depressed, feel like eating due to emotional upheaval. 101 inspirational sayings and scripture verses to keep your spirits up.

Create your list of options. Keep it handy. Check, circle, highlight what works for you.

Choose. Choose this day … to trust in the promise of the Lord: I will turn their mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow. (Jeremiah 31:13)

Enjoy the other things!