It is evening. The day is coming to an end. I can still hear traffic going by, but for the most part, things are quiet. Sometimes the quiet can be deafening, especially when one is alone too much. I find music to help in times like that. I have limited putting the tv on to late afternoon or evening, with occasional exceptions for a specific purpose. I don’t want tv to become an escape from reality. Rather, there is more to do than I have time for. So, if I am working in the house, I prefer a Christian radio station. I find it to uplift and help me from getting discouraged. It is encouraging and refocuses my thinking on things that are important.

When I find myself getting discouraged, many times it is because I am focusing too much on me. I have a lot going on, like so many others, and I can concentrate on all that is wrong. That never seems to change the situation. But when I begin to get my eyes and thoughts off of me, then I find my whole attitude and outlook improves.

If you are fighting discouragement, I encourage you to try some good music, exercise, check your diet, and find some friends that encourage. I also realize sometimes you can’t fight it on your own. There are things like meds, health situations, and other things that make it necessary to get help from a Doctor or counselor. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. We are not meant to be alone and try to handle everything by ourselves. Sometimes the greatest sign of strength is to accept help.