Finding Color In Gray

photo taken in my yard
photo taken in my yard before a monsoon storm

Most times, it’s easy for me to see the bright side and find beauty in almost anything.  The last couple weeks, it’s required more effort.  My tendency has been to see clouds as darkened, my glass half-empty- basically the negative side of any situation.  Old insecurities have seeped back into my consciousness.

But I’m not giving up.  I know whatever this is will pass.  I’m not sure why this is happening, but I don’t suppose my understanding matters.  I will not be swallowed by the shadows, or stifled by the storm clouds…at least, not without a fight.

Give me the strength,

Provide me the will

To appreciate the small joys,

To gravitate toward the uplifting.

At times, I will rest in the shadows,

But please, don’t let me dwell too long.

I forget to let go and my burdens get heavy-

Remind me again, I don’t walk alone.

Why, my soul, are you downcast?  Why so disturbed within me?  Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.  Psalms 42:11

I’ll end this post on a colorful note.  I’m striving for the mood I want, not the mood I have.  Have a beautiful Sunday!

Photo taken on a back road near Fossil Creek, AZ
Photo taken of sunset on a back road near Fossil Creek, AZ

20 thoughts on “Finding Color In Gray

  1. vishalbheeroo August 25, 2013 / 4:44 AM

    Sometimes, the soul behave in an odd manner. As they sad, this too shall pass and is only a phase we undergo in life. Perhaps, a way to push you so that great things happen in life. Such a beautiful poem:)

    • jannatwrites August 25, 2013 / 10:07 PM

      Thanks, Vishal. We went for a drive yesterday and I took some photos. I will be really worried if we go for an outing and I don’t find a single thing to take a picture of!

  2. pattyabr August 25, 2013 / 4:59 AM

    You’ve made many changes in your life recently. Maybe your body and soul are recognizing the need for you to rest, reflect and time to adjust. I will pray for you during this time of waiting . It will be revealed to you in time.

    • jannatwrites August 25, 2013 / 10:09 PM

      Thanks, Patty- I appreciate your prayers. It has been a crazy year (three really, if I count the roller coaster of my husband’s job before he was finally let go.) I’m happy where we’re at now, and I’m glad we made the move, so I’ll just wait for my rested soul to ease up and let me enjoy it 🙂

  3. Lance August 25, 2013 / 5:17 AM

    I love that verse, too. It’s right there with Phillipians 4:13

    Hang in there, Janna. You’re stronger than you know.

    • jannatwrites August 25, 2013 / 10:11 PM

      Thanks, Lance! More than a few days of ‘blue’ tends to get me a little antsy. I’ve fallen further, and I don’t want to go there again.

  4. Colline August 25, 2013 / 6:25 AM

    I hope this Sunday brings with it the mood you are seeking.

    • jannatwrites August 25, 2013 / 10:13 PM

      Thanks, Colline. It was a nice day 🙂

    • jannatwrites August 25, 2013 / 10:16 PM

      Thanks, Nancy. It’s a day-by-day thing. Thanks for the contest info- it might be a bit over my skills, but who knows, I might give it a shot anyway- if the right photo op comes up 🙂

  5. Debbie August 25, 2013 / 8:25 AM

    Was that last photo a sunrise or a sunset? It’s just gorgeous, regardless! Here’s hoping your grey mood will soon pass and all will be brightly colored in your world once again!

    • jannatwrites August 25, 2013 / 10:18 PM

      The last photo was a sunset. We planned to be back on paved roads before dark, but it didn’t quite happen. I’m looking forward to the colors as well, Debbie – thanks!

  6. Carl D'Agostino August 25, 2013 / 9:55 AM

    Yes, we can learn to control thoughts and not let them control us. Takes practice.

    • jannatwrites August 25, 2013 / 10:18 PM

      So true, Carl – practice, and diligence. I’m up for the challenge 🙂

  7. pattisj August 25, 2013 / 1:23 PM

    I do like the color in that last photo. I hope your mood reflects it now. 🙂

    • jannatwrites August 25, 2013 / 10:24 PM

      I liked that one, too, Patti. I hope I’m there soon 🙂

  8. Eric Alagan August 25, 2013 / 5:47 PM

    Here’s wishing for you cheery and rainbow colours ahead, Janna

    • jannatwrites August 25, 2013 / 10:27 PM

      Thanks, Eric. I’m hoping for the same, as well!

  9. Sandra August 28, 2013 / 10:11 AM

    Beautiful photography (both b&w and color), and what a wonderful message, Janna!

    • jannatwrites August 29, 2013 / 10:58 PM

      Thanks, Sandra. I’ve been meaning to play around with black and white, so this seemed like the perfect photo to try it. I appreciate you stopping by!

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