As a child growing up in Rhode Island, the summer time was filled with water games such as the slippy slide, water sprinkler or the ocean. The temperature would rise to the mid to high 90's with a "relative" humidity experience as only the east coast can bring. We had to stay cool so we found multiple ways to do so.
People everywhere understand this routine. When the temperatures soar we head to someplace cool. And if we live near water we rush with intensity. Trying to find a parking place near the beaches in the San Diego areas is an exciting challenge which brings it's own version of heat.
Cooling off is easier on the outside of the body than lowering the lava with attitudes. We know what to do when the sun becomes too hot...we often do not know what to do when the event or person made us boil. How do you handle those moments? How do you find coolness?
It is not easy and I provide no easy answers. Emotions are tied to memories in our brains. There are reasons we do what we do and respond the way we respond. It is not simply that you are a bad parent or a misbehaving Christian who has not surrendered your life to the Savior. There may be times you cannot simply pray or increase your commitment to escape the heat that quickly rises. Understanding the reason gives you a greater ability to deal with the situations. Your first response will always take you to the memory, but knowing and understanding the memory...your trigger point, will allow you to lower the temperature more quickly.
God is able...more than able. Part of the process of growing up in Christ is allowing him to deeply examine our hearts and bring change to the deepest part of our lives. Not with guilt when I am unsuccessful, but with his graciousness as I grow and develop.
Ask yourself why? Why do I respond like this? What memory is tied to this rise in temperature?
How have you found ways to keep cool?
Comments