Drop the Rope

Drop the Rope

A tug of war takes two opposing forces.   It demands two sides will pull, grind, grab through blisters, exhaustion, and pain.  The battle plays out, as you’re getting more worked up between you and anxiety.  As the battle takes on a heated rivalry, you can’t hope to notice those on the side-line missing you.  The warm embrace of your children, perhaps the project you have always wished you would finish, or something spiritual that uplifts you.  Today drop the rope and live again, dream again, and hope again.  It doesn’t mean the rope will never be there taunting you to play again, however at least you now know you don’t have to take the bait.  You have a choice, and that choice gives you space to care for what matters.  “Dropping the rope and ending the struggle creates and opening and doing something else in your life,” expressed Forsynth and Eifert from a book I have been reading Calm in the Chaos.

To Discuss:

What currently do you have a tug of war with that is taking time away from what matters?  What would be the benefits to dropping the rope?

To Do:

Identify the triggers that poke and taunt you to pick up the rope and fight all over again. As soon as you recognize that the attack is occurring, try to remove yourself to a safe space. Ideally, this may be a space you are familiar with. This space should generally be quiet, moderately or dimly lit, and away from crowds or foot traffic. The idea is typically to reduce the amount of external stimulation your brain is receiving so that you can begin to control your thoughts and emotions.

What does God say:

Philippians 4:6-7:

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”