by Cori Leigh | Oct 3, 2024 | Cups of Hope
When life is hard, it’s easy to lose hope. Health crises, the loss of loved ones, and traumatic experiences often leave us wondering, “When will it ever get better?”
I’ve certainly had my share of difficult seasons. During those tough times, I experienced intense anxiety and uncertainty, often feeling lost and broken.
I sometimes felt consumed by my circumstances, with fears, the weight of grief, and many concerns weighing me down. Hope dimmed, energy dissipated and joy faded.
Yet, even in those darkest moments, I discovered that hope prevails. There are ways to rise with hope in tough times!
How to Rise with Hope
When life feels overwhelming, it’s easy to lose sight of hope. But there are ways to stay anchored in faith and keep moving forward. Here are a few ways you can hold on to hope when life feels unbearable:
Lean on Your Faith
In the stormiest seasons of life faith becomes our anchor. Have you ever felt distant from God during hard times? I have. Yet, when I spent even a few quiet moments in prayer, I was reminded that He never leaves, even when my heart feels heavy.
When you feel weak and the heavy weight of burdens, remember that He is your strength, Jesus is with you, even when you can’t feel his presence.
The Power of Prayer in Tough Times
When life becomes overwhelming, and we feel burdened by grief, fear, or uncertainty, prayer can be a powerful source of comfort and strength.
Praying during tough times isn’t just about asking God to fix our problems. It’s about opening our hearts to His presence, surrendering our burdens, and trusting Him to guide us through the storm.
Have you ever noticed that when you give your burdens to Jesus, your heart feels lighter?
By offering our worries and fears to Him, we lighten our hearts, renew our hope, and find the strength to keep moving forward.
Prayer reminds us that God is with us every step of the way, helping us rise with renewed energy and peace.
Take One Day at a Time
When life feels overwhelming, it’s tempting to focus on everything that’s going wrong. But trying to solve all our problems at once can feel unbearable. Instead, focus on today. Take one small step at a time, trusting that God will give you the grace you need for tomorrow when it comes.
Matthew 6:34 reminds us not to worry about tomorrow because today has enough trouble of its own. When you focus on today’s steps, you’ll find strength in each moment, without feeling weighed down by tomorrow’s unknowns.
Surround Yourself with Support
Grief and hardship can make us feel isolated as if no one truly understands our pain. But remember, you don’t have to carry this weight alone. Reach out to trusted friends, family, or a faith community.
Sometimes, hearing someone say, “I’m here for you,” can remind you that you’re not walking through this storm alone.
Don’t hesitate to seek professional help or pastoral counseling if needed. There’s no shame in getting the support you need when life feels too heavy to bear alone.
Attitude of Gratitude
It can be hard to see the good when everything feels wrong. But even in the darkest seasons, there are glimmers of hope. Make it a habit to look for small blessings each day—whether it’s the warmth of the sun, a kind word from a friend, or a moment of peace.
Gratitude helps shift our focus from what we’ve lost to what we still have. And sometimes, those small moments of gratitude are enough to keep us going.
Take Care of Yourself
Grief, anxiety, and stress can take a toll on your physical health. It’s important to care for your body, mind, and soul. Make sure you’re nourishing your body, getting enough rest, and doing things that replenish your spirit.
A walk outside, quiet time in nature, or a few moments of stillness can do wonders and restoring your energy and perspective.
Hold on to Hope
Hope doesn’t mean pretending everything is okay. It’s the quiet confidence that, even when things are hard, God is working for your good. Hold on to that hope, even if it’s just a small glimmer. Sometimes, just believing that tomorrow could be better gives us the strength to face today.
A Poem: Wrapped in His Perfect Love
I wrote this poem several years ago during a difficult time. It’s a reminder that, even when life feels overwhelming, we are wrapped in His perfect love!
Your heart shatters beneath the weight of fear,
this brokenness you carry year by year.
Hope dims as shadows cloud your sight,
and faith, once strong, gives way to fright.
What future lies ahead in this despair?
In the storm, is Jesus truly there?
Anxiety’s tide has shifted the shore,
and peace feels distant, lost evermore.
Consumed by fears that steal your days,
the past has melted in an anxious haze.
Longing for freedom, though the path seems dim,
at last, you surrender all to Him.
Now you look to Jesus, your soul at rest,
for in His peace, your heart is blessed.
Wrapped in His perfect love, you rise with hope, set free,
no longer bound by life’s stormy sea.
In His perfect love, you’ve found your way,
from darkness to light, to a brighter day.
Friends, if you’ve survived hard things, you are not alone. I encourage you not to give up. God’s perfect love will comfort you and bring new hope, even in the darkest moments.
On those days when getting out of bed feels impossible, remember this: His light is still shining. Sometimes it may feel faint, just a small glimmer on the horizon, but it’s enough. That tiny spark of hope can light the way through today, and before you know it, brighter days will come again.
by Cori Leigh | Jun 12, 2024 | Cups of Hope
No matter what challenges you face today, your life holds a great purpose!
Every moment offers opportunities to grow, change, and heal. Purpose, peace, and healing often emerge while in the throes of life’s broken places. There is hope and a purpose that rises above the pain of our circumstances. However, many of us struggle to hold onto hope for a brighter tomorrow despite the challenges we face during tough times.
Reflect on Your Journey: Like I did years ago and continue to today, take a moment to acknowledge where you are and how far you’ve come. Consider journaling about your experiences—what has challenged you the most, and what lessons have you learned? Writing down your thoughts can help you identify patterns and gain insight into your growth.
Seek Small Wins: When hope fades, it’s easy to focus on what’s wrong. Instead, try to find one positive thing each day, no matter how small. It might be a kind word from a friend, a moment of peace, or a task you accomplished. Celebrate these small victories! They are stepping stones toward a greater purpose.
Embrace Healing and Growth
Years ago, I was overwhelmed by fear, anxiety, and panic attacks—each triggered by traumatic life events. When hope fades, it’s easy to focus solely on what’s wrong, which makes it difficult to see what’s right. This mindset can leave us feeling more stuck, making it challenging to discover a purpose that reaches beyond the pain of our circumstances.
This was me years ago. I felt trapped in my circumstances, with hope for a better and safer tomorrow seeming far out of reach. Healing and freedom from fear, worry, and anxiety appeared unattainable.
Identify Your Triggers: Just as I faced anxiety and panic attacks, it’s important to identify what triggers your stress and anxiety. This awareness can empower you to manage or avoid these triggers, creating space for healing.
Practice Self-Compassion: Understand that healing is a journey that takes time. Be patient with yourself and allow yourself to feel what you feel without judgment. Practice self-care activities that nurture your soul, like taking a walk or spending time with loved ones.
Navigating Financial Hardship
As a single mother raising two daughters alone, financial challenges were constant, with often not enough money to make ends meet. The future seemed uncertain, and all I could see were the broken pieces of my life. I wondered if anything would ever be right again, questioning how I could put my life back together, piece by broken piece.
Set Realistic Goals: When facing financial hardship we feel overwhelmed. Break down your financial goals into manageable steps. Whether saving a small amount each week, creating a budget, or finding additional sources of income, each step brings you closer to stability.
Find Support: Find community resources, financial advisors, or trusted friends who can offer guidance and support. You don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. There is strength in seeking help when you need it.
Healing Through Writing
During this time, I wrote more than ever before. Writing became a healing ointment for my hurting heart. On paper, I could pour out my feelings about everything. Sometimes I read past journal entries from years past. In those times it’s a look at my life through previous writings. I see the broken woman I once was. Those pages hold broken dreams, seasons of grief, hopelessness, and sadness.
Start Journaling: Just as I found healing in writing, you can too. Start by journaling your thoughts and feelings each day. Don’t worry about structure—let the words flow naturally. Over time, you may find that journaling helps you process emotions and gain clarity.
Reflect on Your Progress: Revisit your old journal entries to see how much you’ve grown. This can be a powerful reminder of your resilience and the progress you’ve made.
Finding Peace in Faith
In my broken and anxious, fearful heart, God met me there. I’m still in awe of how Jesus sprinkled His light of hope in my darkness—enough to carry me through each day. He gave me hope and a purpose that reached beyond my pain. I could finally dance in the rain—not because all my problems vanished, but because I had hope.
Lean into Your Faith: If you have a faith practice, lean into it during difficult times. Whether through prayer, or reading your bible or other books, these practices can offer comfort and remind you that you’re not alone.
Embrace Hope: Remember, peace isn’t the absence of problems but the presence of hope in the midst of them.
Regardless of the extent of your suffering, past or present, there is hope and a future! One that leads to brighter tomorrow.
I’d love to hear from you in the comments below…
Can you remember a time when you were in a dark season?
How did you find hope for a better tomorrow?
by Cori Leigh | May 20, 2024 | Cups of Hope
You know those mornings that start off with a bang? The ones that shout, “Let the stresses of the day begin” as soon as you open your eyes. Before your cup of coffee even! I had such a morning several years ago.
I’d been sick with a bad cold, losing sleep for a few nights in a row. One morning, I was awakened by my daughter who said, “Mom, the washing machine is broken.”
As we went to the kitchen together, she shared the story. The machine was filled with water that wouldn’t drain out, and her clothes were still inside. As I listened, I brewed some coffee. Definitely needed a cup before dealing with this!
My daughter asked, “Mom, do you feel okay? You don’t look very good.”
I explained I was still battling the cold and could just imagine how awful I looked!
Armed finally with a fresh cup of coffee, I headed down to our basement laundry room. I peeked inside the broken machine that attempted to ruin my morning. I saw my daughter’s wet clothes soaking in soapy water, and in my mind’s eye, it was laughing back at me, saying, “Good morning!”
I felt like a grumpy cat as I sat down, determined not to let a broken washing machine set the pace for the day ahead. I gathered my thoughts, ready to deal with the task at hand.
After bailing out the water, I hand-wrung the entire load of laundry. They were finally ready for the dryer. I felt thankful for living in modern times and not having to do this often. It’s amazing what we can take for granted until it breaks. Thankfully, upon reaching out for help it turned out to be an easy and affordable fix!
When a day starts off on the wrong foot, it can be challenging to turn things around. However, with the right mindset and strategies, you can navigate through the difficulties and still find joy in your day. Here are suggestions to help you cope with those days that just don’t go as expected.
Take a Deep Breath
When things start going wrong, it’s important to take a moment to pause and breathe deeply. This simple act can help calm your mind and body, allowing you to approach the situation with a clearer perspective.
- Find a Quiet Spot: Step away from the chaos for a moment. This could be a quiet room, a bathroom, or even a corner where you can be alone.
- Breathe Deeply: Inhale slowly through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and then exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat this several times until you feel a sense of calm.
- Focus on the Present: Concentrate on the rhythm of your breathing. This helps ground you in the present moment, reducing anxiety about the past or future.
Prioritize Self-Care
When you’re not feeling well, it’s crucial to acknowledge it and be gentle with yourself. Self-care doesn’t have to be elaborate; even small acts can make a significant difference.
- Start with Comfort: Begin your day with something comforting, like a warm cup of coffee or tea, a cozy blanket, or soft music.
- Rest When Needed: If you’re ill or exhausted, don’t push yourself too hard. Resting is essential for recovery.
- Hydrate and Nourish: Drink plenty of water and eat nutritious foods to support your body, especially when you’re under the weather.
Break Down the Problem
When faced with a challenging situation, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Breaking down the problem into smaller, manageable tasks can make it seem less daunting.
- Identify the Issue: Clearly define what the problem is. For instance, if the washing machine is broken, the immediate issue is the standing water and soaked clothes.
- Create a Plan: List out the steps needed to resolve the issue. This might include bailing out the water, wringing out the clothes, and contacting a repair service.
- Tackle One Task at a Time: Focus on completing one step before moving on to the next. This helps prevent feelings of overwhelm and keeps you organized.
Ask for Help
Don’t hesitate to involve family members or friends when you’re dealing with a tough situation. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
- Communicate Clearly: Explain the situation and how the other person can assist. Be specific about what you need help with.
- Share the Load: Delegate tasks to others, whether it’s household chores, running errands, or simply providing moral support.
- Express Gratitude: Show appreciation for the help you receive. A simple thank you can go a long way in maintaining supportive relationships.
Stay Positive
Maintaining a positive mindset can be challenging when things aren’t going well, but it’s crucial for navigating tough days. Optimism can help you see challenges as temporary and surmountable.
- Practice Gratitude: Each morning, take a moment to reflect on three things you’re grateful for. This shifts your focus from what’s going wrong to what’s going right.
- Affirmations: Use positive affirmations to boost your mood. Phrases like “I can handle this” or “This too shall pass” can reinforce a positive outlook.
- Visualize Success: Imagine yourself overcoming the day’s challenges successfully. Visualization can build confidence and reduce stress.
Find Humor
Sometimes, laughter truly is the best medicine. Finding humor in a difficult situation can lighten your mood and make the problem seem less severe.
- Laugh at the Absurdity: Allow yourself to see the funny side of a frustrating situation. For instance, visualizing the washing machine “laughing” at you can turn a negative moment into a more lighthearted one.
- Share a Laugh: Tell a funny story or joke to someone else. Sharing laughter can strengthen bonds and provide emotional relief.
- Watch or Read Something Funny: Take a break to watch a comedy show or read something humorous. This can provide a quick mood boost and a mental break from stress.
Gratitude
Being thankful for the conveniences and comforts you usually have can shift your perspective and help you appreciate the small things in life.
- Gratitude Journal: Keep a journal where you write down things you’re grateful for each day. This practice can enhance your overall sense of well-being.
- Express Thanks: Verbally express your gratitude to others. Whether it’s thanking a family member for their support or appreciating a colleague’s help, vocalizing gratitude strengthens relationships.
- Focus on the Positives: When faced with a broken washing machine, instead of focusing on the inconvenience, be thankful for having a washing machine in the first place and for the times it works perfectly.
Keep Moving Forward
Accept that some days will be tough, but don’t let them define your entire day. Keep pushing forward with a determined spirit, knowing that challenges are temporary.
- Set Small Goals: Break your day into small, achievable goals. Completing each one provides a sense of accomplishment and keeps you moving forward.
- Stay Flexible: Be willing to adapt and change your plans as needed. Flexibility can reduce frustration and help you handle unexpected issues better.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate small victories throughout the day. This positive reinforcement can boost your morale and keep you motivated.
Remember, despite the obstacles, life is still beautiful! By incorporating these tips and strategies, you can navigate through even the toughest days with resilience and grace.
