Oh Monday #TheStruggleIsReal

I am not a fan of struggle, but I know it all too well. Monday mornings are often the worst time of struggle for me. I often wake up very sore and headachy. No, I didn’t party the night before, but it does kind of feel like a hangover. You see, I have been wrestling with chronic migraines for most of my life which brings a host of other problems along with it. Anyone who deals with a chronic illness will deal with other body pains, anxiety, and even depression from time to time.

It’s not fair, but its life and we can either lie down and die or fight for what is left. I choose to fight and here is how I do it.

1. I get out of bed at the same time everyday. This is not easy. Actually it is the worst moment of everyday. Sometimes the feelings of despair are overwhelming, but if I force myself to get up, that dreadful feeling only lasts about 60 seconds.
2. I put on the most comfortable sweatpants and hoodie I can find!
3. I make the most perfect cup of coffee or tea and savor every second of it. It takes me an hour to drink one cup (and I reheat it several times) but I really enjoy it.
4. I make a delicious breakfast. It doesn’t have to be fancy, but it does have to be something I love. I buy the good bakery bread that cost more for my toast in the morning because it makes me happy.
5. I socialize on Facebook and try to be open with my negative feelings while seeing the “sunny side” of things too. I figure my struggle is common and someone out there can relate. I seek to encourage others on social media when I feel down. This beats complaining on there and everyone finding me annoying.
6. I write and then I write some more. Writing is very therapeutic, even if you are not a good writer. Journaling what you are feeling is freeing. Psychologists recommend it often. It is a way to get everything out of the inside.
7. I dwell on God. I am not great at reading the Bible everyday, but I have read the Bible enough to know what it says. When I am too lazy to read, I dwell on what I already know to be true. Or I talk to God. I share my struggles with Him. I turn on some worship music and just sit still in His presence. He renews us. If we draw near to Him, He will draw near to us.

Although struggle is not my cup of tea, I will say this. It is in my struggle that I feel the closest to God. His Word says that He is close to the broken hearted (Ps. 34:18) and I find this to be very true. I am most inspired in my pain. It brings me back to my knees, humbles my prideful heart, teaches me perseverance, and most importantly – it gives me compassion for those who are hurting. Will you join me today in thanking God for our Monday struggles?

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