Many of us struggle to live up to the ideals we see on television, social media as well as magazines and beyond.
That’s why for some people whether they are in a relationship or not, days which are supposed to celebrate love and togetherness can only highlight how different, alone and “uninvited” we tend to feel.
I’d like to use today as an opportunity to share with you how you CAN break the cycle of being depressed on holidays.
Whether it’s Valentine’s Day and all of the mushiness of couples on social media makes you literally want to puke. Or Thanksgiving or Christmas when you are forced to deal with the reality of the loss of a loved one who is no longer there to share with you.
It is possible to learn to enjoy every season of your life. Before we dive in, let’s be clear! There are a lot of couples (including married folks) who have someone next to them yet still experience loneliness.
Embracing God’s love is all about tapping into your inner peace. Knowing that God is with you and will never leave you. (Deuteronomy 31:6) I’ve found Him to be whatever I need Him to be, whenever I need Him to be it.
Here are 3 Ways to NOT Be Discouraged on Valentines’ Day
- Remember that Valentine’s Day is national LOVE day not “couple” day! You are loved and although you may not be dating or courting you have plenty of people you can express your love to. Don’t get caught up in the hype on social media, stay off for the day if that makes it better for you. Guard your mental and physical space.
- Spend Time in the God’s Word– I know this may sound strange, but I have literally felt God wrap His arms around me during intense study of His word, times of prayer, meditation and worship. One way to keep the enemy out is to invite God in! Invite Him into those empty places.
- Rejoice!– You have so much to be thankful for. Honey if it makes you feel better, think about the last toxic relationship you were in and begin to thank God you made it out! Sure, people will be posting a lot of pics with their “boo” but you already know to believe half of what you see and none of what you hear! Now sure, there are some couples who really are happy and their love is an inspiration. Then, there are those who have mastered pretending and will make you think their life is picture perfect. REALITY CHECK: No one’s life or relationship is perfect! They both take WORK!
So be encouraged today and love on yourself! Fill your internal and external environment with God’s presence, go spend time with friends and family and make today a great one!
Here are things you can do on Valentine’s Day:
- Dive into a novel you’ve been wanting to read– It will help you escape the real world.
- Get into God’s word and read about how He feels about you. Allow his word to fill every part of your being and serve as a reminder that you have not been forgotten.
- Turn on worship music and lose yourself- I can’t tell you how many times I’ve done this and completely loss track of time and before I know it hours have gone by and me and Jesus have had ourselves a good time!
- Grab your girlfriends and have a night in or out.– Preferably in because all the love birds will be taking up the tables in restaurants. So to avoid the trouble, either order in or cook in with your friends!
- Spend time with your children– Children are a gift from God. Do something fun! Love on them and let them know how amazing there are and how blessed you are to have them!
- Netflix & Chill- This is the perfect time to binge watch your favorite show without interruption and no apologies.
- Go to karaoke!- Oh my goodness! This is my favorite! I love to sing (although I can’t. LOL) But it always makes me feel good! Now I am a Kingdom Gal all day but I love to sing aloud to the 90s- 2000s Music hits (not the lovey dovey stuff) but you know 411 by Mary J. Blige and a little “Knuck If You Buck” always helps me release a ton of energy. By the time I am done, I am exhausted, ready to shower and go to BED!
Remember: Depression is a choice. I know that may sound cold, but this is coming from someone who has battled with it. When feelings of loneliness and sadness try to bombard my mind and spirit I immediately begin to worship the Lord. I’ve found it hard to be sad when I’ve thinking on the goodness of Jesus!
It’s important to know your triggers so when something awakens them you have a game plan response on how to overcome them!
Be sure to guard your gates by protecting your spirit. If you are single, see it as a blessing rather than a curse. If marriage is what you desire, trust God to allow your paths to cross with that special someone in His divine timing.
I pray this helps you! Be encouraged!
