Kasey is an educator with a passion for equipping people for success. Whether she is teaching in a classroom or learning lessons from her own husband and children, Kasey is a life-long learner and enjoys sharing the insights God has impressed on her. Kasey’s first book, “7 Ways To Be a S.M.A.R.T.E.R Mom” is available in major bookstores and online. As founder and president of Smarter Moms LLC, Kasey has the opportunity to network with and speak to women’s and mom’s groups across the country. Kasey is married to Matt Johnson, and has three sons: Matthew (8), Tyler (6), James (3) and a puppy – Charlie. Kasey and Matt live in Olathe, KS.
Check out Kasey’s blog for moms at
http://smartermoms.wordpress.com.
Feelings come. Feelings go. And feelings can be so deceiving!
When I was in 7th grade there was a song out from a popular Christian artist entitled, “Feelings”. One of the verses talked about the roller coaster of emotions that we experience. We can’t keep feelings from coming so how do we make sure they don’t rule our lives?
If you could make a list of emotions that you feel most days while you are at school, what would your top 3 be? Here’s a list of some feelings to get you started:
POSITIVE FEELING
Joy
Peace
Love
Excitement
Compassion
Contentment
NEGATIVE FEELINGS
Sadness
Anxiety / Fear
Anger
Dread
Resentment
Frustration
Our schedule at school isn’t going to change. Each morning we have to get up and prepare for a day of learning. We have projects to finish, people to see and things to learn – it’s a busy day. So when we have emotions hitting us from all sides we need to have a plan. Whether we are in a crowded hallway or home at our desk I think we need to do three things when a negative feeling hits:
1. Stop and breathe
Even if you need to leave class and find a quiet spot – you need to stop what you are doing and get away. Close your eyes, take a deep breath, hold it for a while and then silently and slowly let it out. As the air leaves let the hurt and frustration out too. No matter the situation, remember that you have the Creator of the world on your side! He is sitting with you, hurting with you and He wants to heal you.
2. Name and claim
Don’t think about the person or the situation – just focus on what you are feeling and name it! Don’t let that girl in the back row or those tests have any power over you. Whatever brought this emotion to you will be there when you go back from your quiet time, so all you can control is your reaction. The Bible says we are “more than conquerors” through Christ (Romans 8:37). Claim His power over your emotion – He is faithful and He’ll help you stand strong.
3. Pray and listen
If you can pray out loud, go for it. If you can’t leave class, write your prayer down on a piece of paper. Cry out to God and ask for His guidance. Listen to His voice and feel His presence with you. He’ll help you take all the “hype” out of the situation and then you can focus on your Heavenly Father – the One who truly loves you.
Let’s be the calm ones in our class. Be the student who doesn’t react emotionally, but instead has a plan. I pray that when the negative emotions hit, you will pray. And when the positive emotions come you’ll rejoice.
How about sharing some of your experiences in how you dealt with an emotional time? Just put it in the comment area below.
In the meantime, keep thinking, keep praying, keep smiling!
Blessings on each of you, sisters!
Kasey