Medication

I think that as Americans, we’re hell-bent on making sure we don’t experience the feeling of discomfort. Let’s face it; we often have the money to satisfy our hunger at any moment of the day, to have shelter from the elements, or to see the doctor and receive medication when we feel physical pain or discomfort. And don’t we approach emotional discomfort much the same way? Our money can also buy the opportunity to occupy our mind with various forms of entertainment to distract us from whatever uncomfortable thing we are thinking or feeling. Or maybe just going about the making of money distracts us from discomfort. But, does it really ever make anything better? Whatever “pill” we take to make the symptoms of life and hardship dissipate for a while – it might make things a little better for a few minutes, hours, maybe days. But, in my experience, it doesn’t ever make the condition go away. Folks, I’m tired of “popping pills” to try to lessen the pain. Sometimes, maybe we just need to feel it. Even as a follower of Christ, who claims to understand the human condition and what (or rather, who) we really, truly need to exist in a fallen world that wrestles with pain and hardship, I try to medicate myself with books, music, exercise, friends, etc. I still try to curb the pain and discomfort, so I don’t have to feel it, when really, maybe the whole point is for me to feel that pain and to remember where I truly need to go for peace and relief. And let me tell you – when you’re suffering, that truth is a hard pill to swallow. Don’t get me wrong – I don’t think that we should all, at all times, be feeling intense pangs of discomfort. I think all of those things I listed above are fine things, and even fine things to use to help get through the day. But, I’m writing this as a reminder to me, and to you, that there is more. We all have our drugs of choice – they just might not be the chemical substances we would typically associate that concept with. I’ve been examining my life lately, to see where I am “medicating” myself so that I don’t have to admit weakness and run to my Savior. I would ask you to both encourage me in that task, as it is a difficult one, especially for a strong-willed person, and join me in doing so. I invite you into the hardship of wrestling with the idols and “remedies” that we place in our lives for our discomfort. :) It’s painful, but necessary – enjoy. :)