The Case of the Blahs

No one is immune from feeling “blah” every now and then.  Blah, you know…the days when you don’t feel like smiling, don’t want to get off the couch, don’t want to talk to anyone unless you have to. You just feel blah.  It’s not full blown depression, but a bump in the road of life.  It can be due to bad circumstances, hormones, medication, lack of sleep, or simply because the weight of your mind is bringing you down.  Such was the case last week with a cashier at a local grocery store.  I look forward to going through her line because she has a great attitude and seems to love life despite some bad circumstances she has had to endure.  Her laughter can be heard throughout the store as she interacts with customers.  I smile every time I hear it.  It’s a lovely reminder that laughter is a gift no matter what you happen to be doing for a living.  One day last week, I noticed she wasn’t her jovial self.  I asked if she was feeling a little blah and she said she was.  I told her that I could relate.  The simple human connection and compassion was all it took for both of us to feel understood.  We stood briefly looking at one another and we felt comfort that someone else could relate.  That someone else cared.  No judgement. No disgust.  Just a moment of “it’s going to be okay.”  Our bubbly, happy selves would be back on track – it was just a matter of time.  We consoled each other with huge smiles and little chit chat as we wrapped up our business transaction.  That’s all it took for me to feel good and I do hope she felt better as the day progressed.  The good news for all of us is that we don’t have to stay in that state.  It’s healthy to feel and process what is going on with you.  But after that is accomplished, put on your game face and get back to doing what it is you do.  God planned you from the beginning of time.  Down to that stubby pinky toe, green eyes, short frame, curly hair, or knobby knees.  He wants you to have joy in your life.  He needs you to serve others.  So, the next time you have a case of the blahs and when you’re ready to face life again, start with a prayer of gratitude for what God has given you, put a smile on your face, and get out there and help someone less fortunate than you.  You’ll find your Spirit soaring again with the joy of the Lord. 
Wishing for you far more good days than bad,
Celeste
 
“…the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10        
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