Suppose we feel the summer ‘glums?’ Pema Chodron has this to say: “Whatever pain you feel, take it in, wishing for all beings to be free of it. Whatever pleasure you feel, send it out to others. In this way, our personal problems and delights become a stepping-stone for understanding the suffering and happiness of all beings.”

Terrific advice. The quote was taken from her little booklet entitled “The Compassion Book,” Pema Chodron author.

So, one good thing we can do when having the ‘glums’ is feel it and not run from it. I’m not saying to get stuck or sink with the feelings. Indeed, Jesus, the master teacher’s message to almost anything is “lift up.”

Lift up and know God is with you as your saving grace — is great. We might ask when feeling down, “how do I lift up?” 

Let me share some things I do. First I feel what I am feeling. Also what I may be wanting instead. Sometimes I will begin exercising and moving in some healthy way. I may go to the bookshelf and begin reading from one of my favorite Truth teachers, like Joel Goldsmith, Pema Chodron or Catherine Ponder. Sometimes reading the Daily Word will lift my spirits.

Or, I will begin giving something or give a blessing to another. Pema is so right–the human experience includes both pain and delight, happiness and sad times, productive and slower times in our unique lives. 

I also like to connect with a dear loved one and ask for a hug or open to give a hug. Hence I connect with myself and or others and do not forsake the authenticity of my emotional, physical or mental state whatever it happens to be at the time.

Another choice may be to sit quietly and tune into the ‘within.’ I still and am receptive to guidance, love and feeling God’s presence; which by the way is ever with you and I. 

The rest I leave up to you dear capable being. You have the answers within you and around you to lift up and tune within to the freeing spiritual nature and liberating present help always and immediately in your very space and midst. You are love and all-ways loved. May you feel comforted and at peace here and now. And so we let it be done, Amen.