THE GIFT OF EMPTINESS
Emptiness can be frightening, exciting, illuminating or depressing. One of my first thoughts is the emptiness you can feel when you are counting calories. It can be difficult and stressful and you may hear your stomach growl. This feeling can also make you happy that you are not stuffed, and you might feel lighter and more energetic. This can lead to feelings of accomplishment and empowerment.
Then there is the emptiness of your wallet. When you realize you do not have enough money to pay your bills or buy something you feel is needed. This can be an unexpected expense; one you are not prepared for and therefore can stress you out.
This feeling of unwanted emptiness can lead to many positive things. I might have to evaluate all the good that I have. I may explore how to trim expenses and often it may mean reaching out to friends, family and asking God to guide you. Being empty may make you take stock, which you can do in a gloomy way or you can see the positives in all you have and all you receive from others; especially in the way of support.
My final thought about the gift of emptiness is on being a widow and the empty feeling that can accompany that state. It is a journey that many of us take, (and it can be any death that we experience). Death of a loved one can feel empty and lonely.
The feelings of; did I do enough? Could I have done more?
If I or anyone embraces the emptiness, the solitary feelings, I know you can be filled with God’s love and also filled with the memory that you were loved are loved and you loved.
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for helping us to understand and trust our emptiness and what we can learn from paying attention.
Lorrie Weeks