Fact is, there is a lot going on in our world right now and a lot of people are dealing with high anxiety.

Have you had or currently experiencing a day or even weeks where you feel this way?

It makes sense if you have been overwhelmed with ruminating on the global pandemic, financial crisis and social injustice we are experiencing.  Healthline has collected a whole list of tools to help your mental health during these crisis.

Recently I had a reckoning from my emotions and I used my creativity to help me acknowledge my feelings and make space for them.  I’m hopeful that the poem that emerged will help you also find gentle relief.  Psalms 42:5

THE WAILING RELIEF

There is a cry welling up from the pit of my soul.

I’ve been working to intentionally slow its progression as it navigates a treacherous route towards my vocal cords.

I fear my cords will sound like that of a roaring hurricane yet provide a perfect breeze to my soul.

I know there will be relief upon its sounding.

My soul will be eased.

My cry will remind me that God is in control.

That this place I’m in is no surprise to him.

That though I fear failure in what He has called me to do, failure is impossible if I don’t quit.

My wailing will be for all those who have lost loved ones most recently.

My wailing will be because I haven’t been able to physically offer comfort to those grieving.

My wailing will be for having to quarantine when I’m already in my house.

My wailing will be for the frustrations of having to extend grace to a slowed pace when I want to go faster.

My wailing will be from the mental exhaustion of seeing my people be treated horribly in a land that claims to be a land of freedom.

My wailing will be for those taking and waiting on covid-19 results.

My wailing will be for those waiting in long lines to get access to free food.

My wailing will be for the businesses that have had to close their doors and will never open again.

My wailing will be for those who have surrendered to the weights above by suicide.

My wailing will help cleanse my soul, my heart and my mind.

My soul will be eased by my wailing.

Because the work must continue.

My hope will be renewed for a brighter day with fewer burdens.

This hope will return joy for my sorrows.

Written by ‘Maven’ Miara Shaw