Centered
Being a therapist is about helping people center the things that support thriving. We often don’t notice when we’ve started placing our trust in fickle hopes. As much as we all love a life of ease - political stability, physical safety, well-behaved relatives, and financial security - it’s the reality of life that we cannot always count on these things. “In this world you will have trouble,” said Jesus.
To thrive emotionally and spiritually, we have the option to practice centering things that last for eternity. These are the things that have the power to calm our souls, no matter the circumstances. We can find clues about how to find these powerful centers when we notice what is always available in every moment, no matter what else is going on.
Breath moving in and out of the lungs. Heartbeat. Sensations on the skin.
God’s loving presence in the space, ready to connect.
The arc of the moral universe, bending toward justice (Martin Luther King Jr).
Joyful memories, however big or small.
The power of a smile at ourselves and others.
Courage to do the right thing. Grace & forgiveness when we don’t know how.
The histories we love to tell highlight people who found their center in something besides the chaos between birth and death. When we dig down deep into eternal joy, we are not avoiding what is difficult - we are keeping our lamp lit in the midst of the darkness, pointing our lives toward heaven. We are playing our part, staying true to eternal hope even as empires and personal fortunes rise and fall.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
My private practice is expanding to full-time! Offering in-person therapy in East Grand Rapids, MI, as well as virtual therapy in 43 states, I specialize in chronic pain, anxiety/depression, grief, & mindfulness. Schedule a free phone consultation today to see if we might be a good fit for working together!
