I am hugely grateful to Dilwen who sent me these lines last week. I don't know where she found them or indeed if they are her own, but the importance is in hearing them. To find within the upset of life, on any day, the positive.
"Fear does not stop death, it stops life.
And worrying does not take away tomorrow’s troubles, it takes away peace."
This so true and we all at times do become enveloped in fear and we certainly all worry from time to time, especially if on our own and unable to get involved in other activities.
Let us today try to focus on living - and living well, too. Also sort out what we can, but don't start worrying about that which we have no control over and that which doesn't help us at all.
I find the Jesus Prayer of the Orthodox Church very helpful when I can't sleep or am bothered by something. It is so simple to say and really helps me to stay focused.
"Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner."
Its repetition, its pattern whilst breathing in and then out as you quietly pray the words, aloud or under your breath." Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God," as you breath in slowly and then as you breath out, "have mercy on me, a sinner." The fact you can alter the words to suit you as long as the pattern, the rhythm is kept, as you breath in and then out. This prayer is then repeated multiple times, perhaps as you use Rosary beads to help you focus, or any other beads or just keep repeating slowly and calmly, until you calm and settle. It can be great to use if you are lying in bed and maybe agitated. You can though use this prayer at any time of day and in any circumstance.
I find it a powerful way to pray and do recommend it to you if you haven't used it before.