ben wysong

​“When we feel hopeless we sometimes forget we don’t get better right away, it isn’t instant. It takes time, patience, and more hardships. So don’t be disappointed in your progress, be proud that you found and are fighting for the light.” - B.A. Wysong

I love the night time, the peace that comes with it, the stillness in the air, there’s something about it. On most nights, after my daughters are in bed, I like to go outside with my dog with no plan but to pray, reflect, and think. I must admit, in my life there have been times that I have felt hopeless, I have felt hurt, and overall just down. I also know that there are so many people who struggle with mental health issues - depression, anxiety, chronic stress, etc. 

One night, these things were on my mind, and I had the thought of how hectic our culture and society is. We want things to happen instantly, we are bombarded with news (oftentimes bad news) everywhere we turn! We can buy things with “one-click.” You can order food from your phone and it shows up at your door within minutes, no more waiting in lines! We have been so accustomed to immediate results and information that we forget things take time, especially when it comes to feelings of hopelessness and hurt. 

Hurting, pain, grief, etc. is linear, it doesn’t have an end, and it looks different for everyone. I have been there, but there was a turning point where I could see things getting better, I felt a sense of hope albeit small, but still - hope. I was proud of myself for that small glimpse and as I was reflecting on that my hope was that others could find comfort in that. What brings you joy? Even if it’s just a glimpse - is it your children? Your significant other? Your family? Job? Creating art? Watching a movie? Coffee in the morning? Your favorite meal? Hold on to those moments that bring a smile to your face and know that there is a light, there is hope - and when you find that? Be proud that you did.