TEACHERS’ AID
WEATHERING THE STORM By Michelle Despault
Perhaps you can relate. If not, let me tell you that it sucks, which is why this month’s article is as much for me as it is for you. As I move through this time, here is what I have come to realize for myself. Emotions are our guide
Our emotions provide an important barometer for us to gauge our well-being. It is important to feel the feelings and let the emotions out – then take the next step forward. For so long, I tried to ignore the emotions, suppress them, or set them aside to deal with later. But after a period of time I could hold them in no longer, and tears started to flow. The timing was never
convenient (like when I was in public), but as I have come to realize, the release was important: it was freeing and it was healthy. Afterward I felt calmer, more centered, and I had a clearer mind. Acknowledging the emotion was necessary to open the door and be able to move forward. I also truly believe that the root of much disease expressed by the body is trapped emotions. So bring on the tears, I say. It is okay to not be okay
For quite some time, when someone asked me how I was doing, I would say, “Okay.” It was a lie, but it was an automatic response. I am not sure if I did not want to be seen as weak, did not want to burden others with my problems, or was just in denial about my true state. I can see now it was a coping mechanism, but it was not helpful for moving forward. The reality was I was struggling and could have used support, I just had no idea what to ask for. Maybe I could have used support from a professional, but in this instance, it turned out that the ear of supportive friends was enough. When I started to share with others what I was going through and how I was feeling, the fog started to lift. Just by putting
Not all storms come to disrupt your life. Some come to clear your path. 20 CATHOLIC TEACHER | MAY 2019
PHOTO: @Mihai_Tamasila / Shutterstock.com
As I write this article, I am emerging from what can only be described as one of the most difficult seasons of my life. A confluence of events, situations, and challenges in my relationships have left me dealing with a great deal more stress, anxiety, and upset than ever before. So often I have felt like I am treading water, fighting against the negative emotions that are trying to pull me under. And I have been unable to see the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel – I have no understanding of how and when I will emerge.