What do you do when go to the situation you’re facing overwhelms the resources you have to deal with it? First, you decide not to feel bad about yourself. All of us, at one point or another, have found ourselves in the middle of a mess. Sometimes we’ve made our own mistakes or poor choices. Other times we encounter dysfunctional people who specialize in making messes for others. Regardless of whose fault it was, what matters is that there is a way out of the mess for you. You deserve to live a happy, healthy life. Free from abuse, oppression, or bondages that limit your future. God created you to serve a special purpose that only you can fulfill. For Him. For the rest of us. That sacred opportunity and duty that you have is priceless. Don’t let anyone rob you of it. Realizing that you’re worth the work it takes to turn your life around is the key to your success.
The next vitally important step is to fully face the reality of the situation. Square your shoulders, lift up your head, and look your situation right in the eye. Stare it down if you have to. Don’t flinch or cower. You’ve got what it takes to deal with the truth. Remember that even if something was your fault, you’ve decided to make a change and move forward now. That’s an honorable choice.
Next, figure out where you want to go. What have you learned from the situation? How can you improve? Even if you’re the one who made poor choices, how can you bring good out of the situation, for yourself or others? It’s never too late to do the next right thing.
Finally, find a reason to hope. The importance of this cannot be overstated. Most of us can recognize when we’re in a mess and come up with a plan to move beyond it. Hope is the vitally important bridge between where we are and what comes next. Maybe the odds are stacked against you, or you face a formidable foe. Acknowledge that, then find a reason to hope anyway. Hope gives you strength for the journey. Hope gives you the ability to make better decisions. Hope gives you courage. Be strong. Be smart. Be brave. You got this.