Life in the darkness
- Kraig Smith
- Jul 7, 2024
- 1 min read
Updated: Jul 27, 2024
Odd title, but we've all been there. Looking down the road, we can see the dark patch, the place where the light is blocked out, the darkness our current path is taking us towards, and we know that we must enter that place.
It's going to be painful; it's going to be lonely; it's going to difficult. What can we do to prepare? Here's four steps for embracing the darkness:
Prepare yourself spiritually. Whether it's through prayer or meditation, find your place to gather strength, hope, and purpose for the dark days ahead.
Gather support. Too often, we feel we must go it alone. We have to "man up," or "pull ourselves together," or "never let 'em see you sweat." Nothing could be further from the truth. We are designed for companionship, fellowship, and mentorship. Gather others around you who will support you through these tough times.
Check the purpose. What reason do you have for taking that path? Is it a worthwhile reason? Is there value to the path? What lies on the other side? If we don't have a reason to enter the darkness, we're much less likely to make it through to the other side.
Go forth in faith. You will come through; you will change; you will survive.
As I quickly approach retirement (potentially in 3 years), I’ve been talking to people like me that have done this and have been given some great advice. I’m concerned (as well as my lovely wife) are concerned about my mental state when I do retire. This live is all I’ve known for the past 35+ years and I will be moving to a location where people won’t understand what my life has been like. When I retired from the Reserves a few years ago, I went through a rough spell, but was able to overcome it eventually. I’m going to do my best to follow your journey. Rich G