My Handy Toolbox
You need to start collecting your box of tools for reminding yourself that there is hope in your situation. I have my bag right here. It never leaves my proverbial side. It’s full of the things that I’ve found pack a powerful punch against hopelessness and can pull me out of the mud pit long enough to pick up the phone and call my friend to come have lemonade. Here’s what’s in my toolbox. Yours will be your own, but this will give you some ideas.
Jesus of Nazareth, a made-for-TV movie with Robert Powell as Jesus (far and away the best portrayal of Jesus, as far as I’m concerned—this actor brought Jesus to life for me): A well-done story of Jesus’ life filmed in 1977. This movie reminds me of the power of my faith. Available on Amazon Prime.
“Body Scan”: Jon Kabat-Zinn’s 29-minute meditation on YouTube. This meditation focuses my attention and life force into my body, gently and lovingly, helping me to be very present with my body and communicate with the parts I need to talk with.
Celia Cain's teaching of this Manifestation Method class was life-altering for me. Yes, I was very skeptical of another self-help class. But this one WORKS! (celiacain.com)
Emmanuel’s Book by the late Pat Rodegast. This book resonates so deeply in my heart that it makes me cry tears of joy every time I read it. I have a similar experience with some Bible passages. Available on Amazon.
Nature; Being in nature farther than my backyard, away from the city. This also helps me be present and get out of my head. There’s something very healing about being in nature, and it’s easier for me to be in my body.
This delightful word search book is a great way to pass the time in the endless waiting rooms. An uplifting, encouraging activity that rewires your neural pathways to thinking positively! Find it on Amazon by Wendy Sloneker.
Music: In particular, gospel music like "Joyful, Joyful" by the ACM Gospel Choir, and Take 6's "Amen." "Happy," by Pharrell Williams, and "Mary, Did You Know," by Pentatonix. And lots more inspirational songs like these. They remind my heart of joy and hope.
Dancing, all kinds. Yes, I occasionlly even rap, though never in public! Don't tell anyone. Dancing brings me pure joy and channels the power of universal love through my body and heart.
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban reminds me of my own power when he produces the patronus stag that protects him from the dementors, and thinks it was his father's, just to realize it was his own, wow! That taps into my deep knowing that the innate power of love that resides untapped inside of me can be accessed to create miracles, to heal me.
The Polar Express movie, because I believe.