When life gets you down, what brings you up?

1. 78

   g-girl11posted 11 years ago

   When life gets you down, what brings you up?
   
   We all face difficult times and struggles. How do YOU remain positive?  What gives you faith?

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   cam8510posted 11 years ago

   When I get down because of negative circumstances, I have found that getting my eyes off myself is the quickest way to relieving the feeling of discouragement.  I've done some volunteer work, helped a friend move, listened when someone else needed to talk.  My problems seem to shrink when I handle the blues that way.  I don't always do this, or I wait too long to start, but it does work when I practice it.

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      Ethan Greenposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      As the saying goes: 'doing good does you good'

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      g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

      A very good reminder to focus outward!  Thanks cam8510

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   Ericdierkerposted 11 years ago

   Friends and Family and especially the children. But I also have another tried and true secret -- help someone else, but I suppose I am just repeating what cam8510 said.

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      g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Yep, Good advice!

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   Max Shelleyposted 11 years ago

   Well I used to smoke herb, but I wouldn't recommend it, I'm not against it however, it's really expensive and illegal in most places in the world. Now I usually just play Mortal Kombat, it's funny how fast kicking the shit out of a virtual character relieves  stress! Other than that, work does help, anything distracting really.

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      g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Yes, healthy distractions/hobbies/interests are important--especially to stop you from thinking negatively and instead get you into a positive frame of mind.

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   IntroduceCroatiaposted 11 years ago

   For me music is crucial, there are some songs that really lift me up. It works every time.

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      g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

      I agree, as do a bunch of others who answered this, that music is so important!

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   Tina Trueloveposted 11 years ago

   Jeremiah 29:11
   
   I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord; plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.

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      g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

      It's hard not to know the plan, but to have faith and hope that the plan will "prosper" us is a good feeling.

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   cat on a soapboxposted 11 years ago

   When negative things get me down, I try to put things into perspective by asking myself, " just how important is this in the overall scheme of things?"

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      g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Good question to remember!

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   randslamposted 11 years ago

   "A little wine for what ails you," said Paul to Timothy.

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      g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

      This made me smile and made me think of what my dad often says, "one of the first miracles God did was change water into wine." Have no idea if that is accurate, but he says it a lot!

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   KrystalDposted 11 years ago

   This really does say it all for me:
   
   http://krystald.hubpages.com/hub/100Way … YourselfUp

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      g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

      I'll have to check it out.  Thanks!

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    MamaTschetposted 11 years ago

    A glass of wine, my hubby and kids around the house, and my dogs reminding me I am loved!

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Very nice!  And you're not the first to mention wine.....

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    Rastamermaidposted 11 years ago

    I have tons of faith in God,and staying positive seems to come easily when you have strong faith.
    I look at my son,how blessed I am to have him,I'm glad God blessed me with him, he's my responsibilty and I will not let Him down.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Faith is so important.  It seems to come easier for some than others.

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    Marseiposted 11 years ago

    My difficult times and struggles right now center around osteoarthritis, and I concede that is it a challenge.  I have learned to be the "thought police," especially in times of stress.  If I once give in to negativity and feeling sorry for myself, I can go to places I don't want to be.  I try to nip it in the bud.  This doesn't mean I'm always successful!  I  just become very vigilant and for every nasty thought, try to replace it with a better one until the bad ones go away.  I've written a hub here about depression and one of the things that has helped me pull out of it or even avoid it entirely is not giving in to gloomy thoughts.  Music lifts my mood sometimes.  But mostly I believe that we choose what we think about, what we give in to.  I love a quote by Abraham Lincoln, and I think it's so true:  People are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.  I'm not a church person, but I do have a full spiritual life.  My favorite scripture in the world is this:  Be still and know that I am God.  That is what gives me faith.

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       Esther Strongposted 11 years agoin reply to this

       I so admire your positivity - stay strong.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       You are so right--once we givein to negative thoughts, it is a very slippery slope indeed. I hope your health challenges get easier!

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    Traci21posted 11 years ago

    Life can get the best out of me; which seems like a lot these days.
    
    My goofy kids are a blessing and it is hard to stay down when their around. Hitting a punching bag listening to "anger music" playing video games by myself or with my husband (except when he is winning)
    
    Alone time and writing out my personal feelings or reading personal writings of mine. I know life will go on and I will be okay.

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       Traci21posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       **when they're around not their"  Whoops I think its bed time *yawn*

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       I like alone time, too.  And also the thought that all will be ok.

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    pinkpencilposted 11 years ago

    When life drags me down, I always think how my Jesus saved me. And of course, my little baby (pet dog) never fails to cheer me up.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Glad you have these things to bring you up!

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    Athlyn Greenposted 11 years ago

    Changing thoughts. When we change the way we look at things, the things we look at change.
    
    Another thing that helps is to cultivate appreciation. If we remind ourselves of all the things we truly feel appreciation over, this can lift the spirits.
    
    Our self-talk also plays a roll. It is good to watch thoughts and if necessary change these so they are more constructive and less self-defeating.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Three great points-- change our thoughts, watch our self-talk, and be grateful!

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    micadeoluposted 11 years ago

    Yes! Whenever I am down and feel very depressed, I have learned a great deal to play music especially that of Christian gospel type that will lift up my spirit and after that I visualize the solution coming right my way in a miraculous way. Then I go to sleep immediately. After this I have found that I feel so refreshed and within some days or hours the solution just come and present it self like a solution to a jigsaw puzzle.
    
    Anyone here can try this and give me a feed back. Love you all!

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       I like the idea of visualizing a solution coming in a miraculous way--thanks for that!

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    remanikiposted 11 years ago

    When there are problems, even serious ones, they cannot keep me down for a long time. I have learned the hard way to accept things as they come, so I neither hope for miracles nor become weakened by problems. I do get upset for a short while but gather myself up quickly and tell myself 'it will pass'. And it does. It has to. Lovely question. Thank you g-girl11.

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       dghbrhposted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Exactly same goes for me as well.
       So just following remaniki here.
       Really the inner feeling that everything passes by with time. For that matter even good things we cant hold on to also. So if good goes by then the bad also moves on.
       Thanks.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       I like your answer, but I am curious why you don't "hope for miracles'?

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    marwan asmarposted 11 years ago

    God and more faith, and there is always the natural view that it will be better around the corner.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       "Better times are coming"....a saying my friend just told me her mother-in-law always had.

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    NC4Life078posted 11 years ago

    Being human, I tend to wallow in my agony. For example, before I begin to relax I will listen to music that makes me furious or depressed and feel even more sorry for myself. As the old saying goes; "When it rains, it pours."
    
    
    But, once I finally become vulnerable I use a wide variety of resources to cheer myself up as life is quite complex. Be it talking it over with my wife, writing, praying, laughing it off with friends, lifting weights, gardening, running or just listening to music (generally, I stick to classical when I'm fuming).
    
    I have always wondered what gives me faith and hope. Even when all light seems to have dissipated I have always been able to carry on. Perhaps, I have been given the gift of endurance. But, I suppose it is hope for something more that essentially keeps me positive.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       It's good to get it all out with some music---and I like the "hope for something more."  Very uplifting thought.

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    moneycopposted 11 years ago

    the struggling life itself is madse to kep us positive, positivity grows where problems prevails, thats the right time to get positive and walk bravely

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       I like that: "positivity grows were problems prevail."  I like that a lot!

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    kenneth averyposted 11 years ago

    a few cups of fresh, hot, black coffee and some memory-sharing with an old friend.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Very nice.  Except I'd go for tea.  But, yeah!

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    somethgblueposted 11 years ago

    Knowing that I do not need to know the plan, to know that I'm a part of it. That I incarnated on this planet at this time for something beyond spectacular and that I need to continue with my existence to make sure that my tiny role in the grand plan is carried out.
    
    That gives me the faith to continue and to deal with the rest of you, such as you are!

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       Insane Mundaneposted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Yeah, I also chose to incarnate during the brink of madness/chaos.
       In addition to your comment, I find that my memory helps a lot, as one who forgets their past is truly lost...

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Sometimes I wish I knew the plan!  But I like thinking there is something "beyond spectacular" in store for me.  What a great thought!

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    Billy Hicksposted 11 years ago

    This:
    
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jHPOzQzk9Qo

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Will check it out.

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    NicholasAposted 11 years ago

    George Carlin makes me laugh when the day has been rough.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       I also love to watch comedians, on tv, or at local live shows. Laughter is so important in life!

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    sunkentreasureposted 11 years ago

    THE MAGIC IN YOU By BERNARD LEVINE
    
    Keep your eyes on the stars
    
    and the stars in your eyes
    
    Make the most of every precious moment
    
    Remember - every breath is a miracle
    
    and every day is a gift
    
    You were made with a rare uniqueness
    
    to fulfill a special purpose
    
    Reward yourself
    
    with the very special things you like
    
    Never under-estimate the power
    
    of a seed of love
    
    planted into another's life
    
    Send someone a signal
    
    that they really matter
    
    Follow your heart's secret desires
    
    and you will find your magic rainbow
    
    Never give up on your dreams!
    
    © Bernard Levine

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       shampa sadhyaposted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Loved your approach.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Love this!  Thanks for sharing.

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    miasposted 11 years ago

    Just look in the mirror and smile. Take a deep breath go to your happy place. Changing your thoughts goes a really long way in changing your circumstances. It is very important to break the flow of negative thoughts streaming in your mind and pulling you down.
    
    If you cant do that simply distract yourself with music a tv show maybe cook something or anything which momentarily diverts your mind to something else.
    
    You will suddenly realise things are changing around you. Focusing on everything awful is disastrous.
    
    Lastly just like everything in life even the down is temprorary and will change. Nothing is permanent!

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       All great words!  I agree--changing your thoughts is key!

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    SherryDigitalposted 11 years ago

    Have you watched the music video for the song, "Gangnam Style?" If not, you should. It recently brought me out of a bout of deep depression. Look for it on YouTube.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       I have!  Along with many other versions.  Definitely puts a smile on your face--and you can't help but want to dance along!

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    shampa sadhyaposted 11 years ago

    I do feel upset but not for too long. I find the best way is to speak about it with my sisters and my husband. A little discussion on an issue or a situation lightens me a lot. It then gives a scope to find out a positive way and that's it. I am done with it to handle the matter in an effective manner.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Talking it out is always a good thing!

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    sunilkunnoth2012posted 11 years ago

    I will do things to improve my confidence level.  And surely pray God to make me up.  Reading self improvement books really helps me in such situation.  Also making pilgrimages  too.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Interesting. What kind of pilgrimages?

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    Kahanaposted 11 years ago

    Focussing on the positive things in my life.  Looking at those I love and that love me have achieved and recognizing that 99% of the things we tend to worry about and think will happen never really amount to much.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       A good reminder.  I've heard the saying, "either worry, or pray, but don't do both."

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    Sushma Webberposted 11 years ago

    Having studied Theosophy since I was a teenager has helped my regain my balance every time I faced difficulties. Having a perspective that there is something higher than the personal self has helped me give the necessary importance that each challenge deserves. In fact, I am in the process at this very moment of writing a hub on Stress Relief when Meditation is Difficult which deals with this question.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Good!  I will look for your hub!

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    litsabdposted 11 years ago

    I have always believed that our power is within us and is great. So, everytime I was "beaten up" I tried to heal my inner wounds by pulling myself together with more possitive thoughts and by praying to God. Of course , people around me that care about me, have always been a big source of power with their support.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       I agree about the power within us, and positive thoughts.  So important!

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    tsmogposted 11 years ago

    Helping others. Taking a walk -mentally or physically. Practice Smiling

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       A mental "walk".  I like that.

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    iefox5posted 11 years ago

    My friends and family are always there when I'm in difficult situation.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       That's a great thing.  You are blessed.

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    pearlmacbposted 11 years ago

    1. Prayer & listening to worship music 2. By diverting my focus off myself and onto charity work 3. A long jog

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       All great suggestions!  Thanks.

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    The Invincibleposted 11 years ago

    There's always a part of me that says, 'Get up, You can't give up. Do it before you die' ...... and that little part of me keeps me alive

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       We all need those kinds of words!

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    plinkaposted 11 years ago

    Dance and listening to my favorite songs. Anyway, doing any kind of sports always help or if you take up a new hobby.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Like you, I LOVE sports and music and DANCING.  All bring me a lot of joy.

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    epigrammanposted 11 years ago

    ....waking up in the morning and turning over to Sannel - and singing 'Oh what a beautiful morning' from the Broadway musical Oklahoma - and she gets up from our bed to make the morning coffee and she is free from Chronic Free Syndrome - finally!   That is heaven on earth to me - and NOT the one beyond!
    lake erie time ontario canada 4:11am

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       That IS a great way to start a day!

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    Prayerhubposted 11 years ago

    Yes we all face difficult times and struggles. I do remain positive in the words of Christ ,the son of God, the author and finisher of my Faith. The word of God, his unfailing promises to those who obey him and the testimonies of those he delivered from difficult times, gives me the faith to move on and expect my miracles.
    
    "This things I have spoken unto you that in me,ye might have peace . In the world, ye shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have over the world." John 16vs 33-- So my beloved sister, I am an overcomer in Christ Jesus.
    So join me in prayers @ http;//prayerhub.hubpages.com

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Thank you for that beautiful, perfect quote.

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    anupmaposted 11 years ago

    When things let me down, my family and friends play pivotal role then. They encourage me to face negative situation and then my positive aspect shows me the brighter side of dark things.
    Really it is our attitude that decides our reaction. In anyone's life difficult times come, but our positive attitude can help us to face the difficulties with courage.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       I agree. Attitude is everything!  Sounds like you are blessed with great family and friends, too.

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    loveofnightposted 11 years ago

    I start by examing the things that have put me on that path and then try to find solutions to my problems. It's not always easy to examine those dark corners on the shelf but it must be done.I also get strength from those around me like my grandson who sees me as superwoman. Little does he know that this superwoman has on a wrinkled cape. When I see the love and belief in his eyes it's hard to stay down too long.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Well-put!  I like the idea of the examining, and also of the reminder of those who look to us for strength.

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    Deepak Chaturvediposted 11 years ago

    I try to divert my that negative energy into most positive one, through listenimg  songs,reading books about positive thoughts and ofcourse helping others.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Sounds like all the things I turn to, too!

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    unvrsoposted 11 years ago

    Usually my inner self would indicate the way to go. In this world there is nothing that can´t be overcome. The awareness that everything around us is superficial and just momentarily useful for as long as our life prolongs is what awakens me, and reminds me that our spirits are more precious than anything we can pursue in this world.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       I LOVE two of your quotes here: "there is nothing that can't be overcome" and "our spirits are more precious than anything we can pursue."  Words of wisdom.  Thanks!

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    ercramer36posted 11 years ago

    Its funny that you ask this question right now, because I am listening to a sermon by Ken Hutcherson that is talking about that.  I remain positive because this world is not my home.  As bad as this world can be, it will be the only hell that I will ever know because I have accepted Jesus as my savior.  If i did not know Jesus, that would be depressing because it is the only heaven that i would ever lnow.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       I admire your faith and am intrigued by the coincidence of the sermon.  I will have to look up Ken Hutcherson.

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    Dan Barfieldposted 11 years ago

    The act of creation! Writing, painting, sculpting, cooking... anything which involves creating something always picks me up. The act of creation is divine, as they say. Oh and music - singing or listening to great music always picks me out of the dumps too. I tend to surround myself with good music, art, literature and fill myself with fine foods and wines... I'm a happy guy

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Glad you are happy!  Sounds like you have a good formula.  I agree that creative expression and music are so important to keep us uplifted in life!

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    Violet Flameposted 11 years ago

    I find staying positive, associating yourself with loving friends and engaging in positive acts of self care help to keep me above water.
    
    But there are times when even strength of character, will power and everyday faith start to crumble, ie, at times of depression and severe trying events.
    At the lowest point in life, when I feel powerless or incapable to carry on, I was blessed to have special help from above. I have just recently written down two such personal encounters. I wrote them with the belief that others could also relate to them and find hope and new strength.
    
    http://violet-flame.hubpages.com/hub/Th … True-Story
    
    http://violet-flame.hubpages.com/hub/An … -to-heaven

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Very interesting, Violet Flame. I will definitely check these out.

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    physicsgarageposted 11 years ago

    in this type of situation your faith in yourself brings you up.
    you can have faith in yourself by connecting yourself with your chetna(internal soul) by meditation to make use of free energy of supreme soul(may call him god) which is also available free of cost.
    you will see the difference soon.

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       I keep telling myself that I need to get back to meditating...this post is a good reminder to do so!

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    g-girl11posted 11 years ago

    Billy Hicks, I checked out the video.  Made me LAUGH!  Thank you.

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    hagsvilleUSAposted 11 years ago

    my good friend jena.  we laugh til it hurts, and i always feel better.   :-)

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       g-girl11posted 11 years agoin reply to this

       Friendship and laughter, two VITAL parts of a happy life!

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