Artwork by Nancy Shea
Not to belabor the point, but (today’s post is supposed to be something from our marriage this past week to help you in yours) I’ve had vertigo for two weeks. It has not been easy on me or Tom. The worst part being, I can’t drive anywhere, so I end up staying home alone all day. This normally isn’t a problem, but when I’m limited in what I can do, my thoughts tend to take on a life of their own.
Today was no exception. I managed to make dinner for us, and I planned for Tom and me to sit in the dining room. As we were talking about our day, Tom became very aware of my negative thoughts. I was relaying to him all that was on my mind, and let’s just say – it was a boatload of worry.
Tom could have joined in my concern adding his as well. But he didn’t.
He could have let me talk and barely listened saying – “uh-huh!” But he didn’t.
Instead he directed my thoughts to where they should have been all along. Upward! I was being introspective, critical and discouraged all at once, and rather than let me vent…he helped me redirect my thoughts to where they should be. It was a very helpful conversation.
How are your talks as you spend time together downloading your day? Do you dump on your spouse and think it’s okay – or do they hold your hand and help you out of the mire of self-pity? I’m grateful today Tom helped me out. The air is much clearer up here!
The Romantic Vineyard 
Thanks for sharing this, Debi. It is a good model to follow as Jenn has been down lately about our move to the “middle of nowhere” – Fayetteville, Arkansas. Instead of adding to her worry with my own concerns, or just disconnecting, I need to redirect her thoughts to Christ and His work on the cross. And then we can see those thoughts for what they are – small and insignificant in light of His glory!
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I love the painting. I also love the idea of redirecting our thoughts sometimes it is so hard to not see tomorrow and what might be ahead of us because we are focusing on today and what we are dealing with right now.
It is a good thing to have someone walk alongside us and help us to remember to look up … so glad you are feeling like your heart is less heavy~ take care and rest for in the rest time we often find renewal.
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Sharon – yes, resting is a good thing. It is a necessary thing. I am grateful to have Tom to help me rest my brain when it is refusing to listen. I’ve learned these seasons end up being the ones most worthwhile, because it is in these struggles when God teaches me the most.
Thanks for your encouragement,
Debi
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