Just Breathe

This past Christmas my mother-in-law, who always seems to find the perfect gifts, gave me a necklace with a charm reading “Just Breathe.” Little did I know this disarming trendy accessory would be more of a portent and prophetic symbol. Because is it me, or does it feel like 2023 took off like a speeding bullet train? Less than a month in and arms are flailing, neck is reaching for the sky, breaths are few and far between. I feel like I need to Just Breathe.

So far 2023 has been characterized by conflict, death, frustration and bad news. I don’t remember starting a year like this. New years are supposed to be exciting and promising. You’re supposed to feel ready to tackle new and old goals and eager to take on the world. What happens when you’re met with unexpected events of the not so good kind and plot twists that make your stomach churn? It’s too soon for a vacation or to countdown the days until Christmas. There’s still too much to do to sleep away your problems. It’s too early to lose hope.

Just Breathe.

Just Breathe means slowing down, letting go of control, being still. It means surrendering to that which comes without command. When I can’t control circumstances or outcomes, all I can do is breathe and wait.

Breathing does not depend on talent, skill or mastery. Yet, it’s essential to life and a daily miracle we take for granted. When life is confusing, overwhelming and discouraging, all I can do is breathe and lean on God’s greater power and strength.

Just Breathe means life. When the days are disappointing and tears are unavoidable, there is always hope. And in Christ, we have a living hope (1 Peter 1:3).

So, this year may not be kicking off as I would have expected or desired, but I can Just Breathe. Knowing that “to God belong wisdom and power; counsel and understanding are his” (Job 12:13) means I don’t have to have solutions or remedies for everything. I can be at peace even as I wait for answers to my prayers. I can relinquish control and be satisfied with doing God’s will over my own. I can keep my heart soft and vulnerable.

"In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind." - Job 12:10