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Post #161991

Author
ADigitalMan
Parent topic
A Deep, Abiding Emptiness
Link to post in topic
https://originaltrilogy.com/post/id/161991/action/topic#161991
Date created
8-Dec-2005, 11:44 PM
Discuss this with your minister, and if venting to a psychologist isn't comfortable, perhaps a pastoral counselor may be more appropriate. At the end of the day, we're all a bunch of schmoes on some chat board -- we shouldn't be the real things in your life -- and I doubt any of us are qualified for genuine advice.

That said, here I go anyway. Mission work is always a good option -- depending on the ties may or may not exist in your life -- for feeling productive for the right things. This country needs a LOT of help in the Gulf Coast still. Depending on your church, there is probably some local area mission team you could join for even a small stint that could get you doing something productive with your faith. That may lead to other callings, but take one step at a time.

Churches need rebuilding down there. Homeless shelters need to be built too. After all, the homeless had nowhere to go when everything was obliterated.

They need a lot of THINGS there too, but I'm talking the essentials. Houses. Water. Toothpaste. Band-Aids. The things we take for granted. And money to buy things as well. And while you could sell everything you have and nobly donate it all, you may actually better serve by helping to raise money, putting in what you feel is an appropriate amount. Organize a fundraiser for those who are still suffering. Perhaps a churchwide auction or bake sale or clothing drive. Lots of summer stuff got donated to relief efforts in September, but now three months later they need warmer things when people are forgetting. It may be warmer in the gulf coast during winter, but it's not always HOT.

These are all things that could give you a better sense of purpose when bombarded by the messages of gross materialism that have overridden the true spirit of Christmas.

The main thing is to find something positive and constructive. The opportunities are there and the need is great. It's much better than allowing yourself to slip into a depression or worse. Your emotions are valid. Your faith is an advantage. The avenues are present and your minister is probably best-suited to help you find some real purpose.

Best of luck, and God Bless.