Just BE
Just Be
A still mind is a strong mind.
When life is good and everything is going your way, it’s easy to feel still, peaceful, and content. But when troubles arrive, that calm can quickly fade, and that’s when the true strength of “being still” is put to the test. No matter what’s tugging at your heart, I promise you—finding your way back to peace begins with practicing stillness.
Now, stillness doesn’t mean you have to sit in silence like a statue. It’s natural to feel like you need to do something to get the energy out of you. It might be fear, hurt, anger, or a need to be seen and understood. Stillness here means quieting your reactions and finding calm in your racing thoughts. Simple, yes. Easy, no. But it’s possible.
When Fear Strikes
When fear grips your heart, everything in you wants to jump up, scramble, and regain control. Fear reminds us of what we can’t control, and our minds beg us to take action. It’s almost instinctual: we see something happening, feel the loss of control, and think, “I have to do something!”
Depending on your attachment style, you’ll have a natural inclination for how you respond. If you’re avoidant, you might shut down or retreat; if you’re anxious, you may feel the need to reach out, get louder, or take action. Recognize that fear is informing you that something needs attention, but it shouldn’t lead. Acting out of fear only provides a quick, false fix, not the peace you’re seeking. So ask yourself, “What does acting out of fear look like for me?” Remember, stillness is the antidote to that illusion of control.
When Grief Overwhelms
Grief has a way of making us feel we need to bargain to “get back” whatever it is we’ve lost. Bargaining might mean making deals with yourself, a higher power, or even asking endless “what if” questions to reimagine things differently. This is normal, but be careful—bargaining can sometimes lead to actions that don’t align with your values. Grief, like fear, informs us. But grief cannot lead; it will pull you deeper into hurt. When you’re grieving, ask yourself, “What does letting my grief lead me look like?” Embrace stillness. It will help calm your impulse and promote peace.
When You Feel Misunderstood
Sometimes, nothing stings more than feeling misunderstood. Everything in you wants to speak your truth and share your side. This is so close to my heart because I know how deeply important it is to feel seen and heard. Friend, your side does matter. And it’s essential to have a few trusted “ride or die” friends who will witness this with you.
Without practicing stillness first, though, you risk sabotaging yourself. When you feel misunderstood, find your people—the ones who know you, who love you, and who know the truth. They’ll help you stay grounded. People will come to know who you truly are through your actions, not by stories others share. Trust this. Find stillness when you feel misunderstood. Reflect, “What is my truth here?”
When Anger Rises
Anger has a voice all its own, especially when it’s rooted in injustice or mistreatment. But remember, anger informs; it cannot lead. If it leads, it may steer you toward actions you’ll regret. I understand this struggle well—it’s something my clients and I face together. Here’s what helps me keep anger in check:
I lean on my wise friends, those I trust to speak truth to me.
I ask myself, “What experience do I want to create?” before acting on my anger. This question has saved me from much regret.
I channel the anger by taking a walk, hitting a pillow, or journaling.
Stay still enough to ask yourself, “How do I want this to look?” so that your actions align with your values.
Remember, A Still Mind Is a Strong Mind
When you find stillness, those chaotic thoughts will settle, and your actions will reflect the person you are at your core. A still mind won’t be tossed around by chaos or drama; it slows impulsivity, surrenders the illusion of control, and makes room for peace and clarity. A still mind ushers in a soft heart. God reminds us to be still and promises to take our hearts of stone and give us hearts of flesh.
Your heart will be whole again, dear one. The first step is stillness. Let this be a holy moment—experience the sacredness within your pain. Embrace it fully.
