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Storms and Full Moons

I never believed the old wives’ tale about crazy behaviors during a full moon until I became a teacher. People who work in public schools or in emergency rooms can attest that this is a fact. I don’t know if there is a secret chat among students to plan out just how far they can push their teachers or if they really are being affected by the unknown gravitational force of the full phase of the moon. 

In addition to the lunar abnormalities at school, our area was once again plagued with a hurricane. This caused the postponement of normal life as our region held its collective breath waiting to see where the most damage would occur. Our county was spared severe damage, but counties to our east were affected. After surviving Hurricane Michael in 2018, every storm in the tropics has us on full alert.

It goes without saying that it was definitely “one of those weeks.” Emotions run high. So do frustrations. In my flesh, I become exhausted and overly sensitive. A simple phone call is enough to make me question my worth, which is something that happened this week. 

Fortunately, I am surrounded by a tribe of people that pray with me and help me get my feet firmly planted back on my Rock. When I am nearly in tears, I can go to these few who help me back off of the ledge of emotional meltdown and see reason when all I can hear is the voice of the enemy whispering doubts in my mind.

When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer. (Psalms‬ ‭94‬:‭19‬ ‭NLT‬‬)

I have often told my children and my students how very important it is to wisely choose friends who will help build you up. The same has applied for me well into adulthood. When I am surrounded with encouraging people, those who I know will pray and keep my worries in confidence, the stronger I become spiritually. 

Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. (Galatians‬ ‭6‬:‭2‬ ‭NLT‬‬)

The early Church understood the concept of sharing burdens. On days that I’m stronger, it’s necessary for me to encourage others. But God created us to be in relationships with one another to draw us closer to Him.

The challenge today is simple: find your tribe. Search for and attach yourself to that group of people (large or small) that you can be completely honest with. Share your joys together. Let them help you on your hard days. Allow yourselves to show one another the unconditional love and acceptance that God so graciously has given us. That’s how you you weather the storms of life. And full moons.

© Jill Cook and Unbroken & Undone Ministries.  All rights reserved.


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