ROCK thru to the Light: Finding Hope in Dark Times
by Lee Havenga | March 14, 2024
In a world filled with conflict, pain, and despair, it’s easy to overlook the moments of goodness that still exist. From the daily news headlines to personal struggles, it can feel like darkness surrounds us. But amidst war, oppression, and chaos, glimmers of hope and beauty are waiting to be recognized. Welcome to another chapter in the Abundant Living series, where we explore how to find and embrace goodness in a world that, if we let it, can be overshadowed by gloom. Let’s discover how applying the four ROCK thru principles—Respect, Ownership, Connection, and Kindness—can help us navigate the darkness and rediscover the light.
Where there’s darkness, be the light.
RESPECT
Apply it
Value Every Moment: Practice Respect by honoring the value of every moment, even amid turmoil. Recognize that taking time to enjoy life doesn’t make you insensitive to the world’s challenges; it allows you to maintain your well-being and contribute positively. Embracing moments of joy and peace is essential for sustaining hope and resilience.
OWNERSHIP
Apply it
Take Control of Your Perspective: Exercise Ownership by taking control of your perspective on the world. Become aware of the triggers that exacerbate feelings of sadness or despair, and limit your exposure to negative influences. Instead, actively seek out sources of inspiration and positivity to counteract the overwhelming negativity. By consciously choosing what you focus on, you empower yourself to cultivate a more optimistic outlook. Here are few techniques to foster positivity:
- Limit Your Exposure: Reduce the time spent consuming negative news or social media content that contributes to feelings of despair. Instead, allocate more time to activities that uplift and inspire you, such as reading positive literature, listening to uplifting music, or spending time in nature.
- Practice Gratitude: Cultivate a habit of gratitude by regularly reflecting on what you’re thankful for in your life. Keep a gratitude journal where you jot down three things you’re grateful for each day, or take a moment before bed to mentally acknowledge the blessings in your life. Research published in the Journal of Positive Psychology suggests that practicing gratitude can increase happiness and well-being (Emmons & McCullough, 2003).
- Shift Your Perspective: Challenge negative thoughts and beliefs by reframing them more positively. When faced with adversity, ask yourself what lessons or opportunities for growth it presents rather than dwelling on the negative aspects. Adopting a growth mindset, as suggested by psychologist Carol Dweck, can help you approach challenges with resilience and optimism (Dweck, 2006).
CONNECTION
Apply it
Find Solace in Spiritual Connection: Foster Connection by leaning into a source of the greater good. Whether through prayer, meditation, or connecting with nature, seek solace in spiritual practices that remind you of the inherent goodness in the world. Draw strength from the belief that God has a higher power beyond the current challenges. Channel that positivity into actions that uplift and inspire others.
KINDNESS
Apply it
Spread Goodness Through Acts of Kindness: Practice Kindness by recognizing and fulfilling the needs of those around you. Look for opportunities to spread positivity through small acts of generosity and compassion. Whether volunteering in your community, offering support to a friend in need, or simply sharing a smile with a frowning stranger, every act of Kindness contributes to the collective effort to bring light into the world.
In times of darkness, it’s important to remember that we can see and even create light. By embracing the principles of Respect, Ownership, Connection, and Kindness, we can navigate through the pain and find moments of joy and goodness amidst the chaos. So, let’s ROCK thru together, especially when the world feels too heavy to bear. XO ~ Lee
Source:
- Emmons, R. A., & McCullough, M. E. (2003). Counting blessings versus burdens: An experimental investigation of gratitude and subjective well-being in daily life. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 84(2), 377–389. doi:10.1037/0022-3514.84.2.377
- Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The new psychology of success. Ballantine Books.
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