There are so many things going on in our world today for us to worry about. They constantly pop up out of nowhere, or maybe from everywhere. You’re going along having a wonderful day when suddenly something steals your joy. Regardless of what you try, you can’t get it out of your head. Believe me, I’m right there with you. Last week I remembered a trusty method I’ve used multiple times in my life to quiet my mind. I write down my worries. For me, writing them down the old-fashioned way with pen and paper provides a better release than typing them out. I’ve done this twice in as many weeks. You keep writing until you can think of nothing else to worry about. Now look for one or two more in the back corner of your brain. Seriously, EVERY LAST ONE. Now all those thoughts, arguments, and rehearsed comebacks are written down so you can find them if needed. You don’t have to worry about forgetting or losing them anymore. You know right where they are.
     When that next worry enters your brain, grab your journal or a sheet of paper and a pen. Maybe grab one of the kids’ spiral notebooks laying around the house left over from last year. You know, the one with only five or six pages used. Rip those pages out. Now go to the kitchen junk drawer and grab a sharpie. Write “Worry Journal” on the outside cover. Open that fresh pad of paper and start writing. Keep writing and making those lists. When finished, close your notebook and take a deep breath. Feel better now? I hope so. I know this helps me, and I hope it will help you as well.