I’ve been playing around with an idea. Let’s call it being emotionally present and peaceful.

Let me break it down.

Emotionally Present

Emotionally Present means attuned to my situation and those around me. Not distracted, disturbed, or having any agenda. Just enjoying my day and life.

Peaceful

Untroubled by conflict, no agitation, feeling at ease.

So one of the goals in my life is to operate an emotional system where I am Emotionally Present AND Peaceful.

But I’ve noticed something recently. I can go from being in an emotional present, peaceful state to being highly agitated and snappy. I started slowing down and focusing on the steps of what was happening.

First, there is a triggering event. Someone makes a negative comment and that triggers a feeling of failure in me. And I immediately shift into being agitated and upset.

• “You left your shoes in the hallway.”
• “You didn’t empty the trash.”
• “You were late.”
• “You ate the last piece of bread.”

The Question

Why do I let someone’s negative statement change my peaceful mood? Thinking through this question is my homework.

Prayer

Father, thank you that you love me, accept me, and you think I’m good enough. Forgive me when I let someone else’s complaint steal my joy. Help me grow in this area. Amen.

Bible-Jesus said,
I’ve come that they may have life and have it to the full.
John 10:10b