“…we were like those who dreamed. Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy.” Psalm 126: 1a-2a NIV

Psalm 126
Marvels of the past
remind us how you turn these
seedling tears to joy

Book Title: “Soul Songs to God”
A Haiku Psalter Poem
by  Francis Dorff, O.Praem.
The Norbertine Community of New Mexico

While in New Mexico at the Norbertine Abbey I picked up a book in the library. As I sat nestled in the chair the words filled me up inside with a peace and comfort and sense of understanding. I had never heard of Haiku Psalter Poems. Francis Dorff, O.Praem had written a book called, "Soul Songs to God." It was filled with little seeds to be planted in my heart. I just had to purchase it. I have read it through three times now. "Haiku" is a short 3-line poem. "Psalter" stands for the book of Psalms. Francis wrote a Haiku Psalter poem for each psalm giving a definition of its specific content all wrapped up into 3 lines. This particular one jumped out to me each time. Which is why I must share it with you. Psalm 126 speaks of the Lord restoring laughter and joy after the Israelite people were taken out of their bondage and distress. It is a message of hope when you are in a place of despair. Remember this, so that you too can have a hope in your future with tears of joy!

Are you in a place of bondage, despair or turmoil? Maybe you are just having a rough time with the season change or struggle with a sadness that is in the pit of your stomach, and you can’t seem to shake it off. Why don’t we look at how you can practice experiencing positive emotion. Your joy is just buried deep inside you. Why not take out the trash that is taking up space where your joy needs to occupy!

1. What are you doing to find the gratitude in little moments throughout the day?

I made a gratitude board and hung it on the wall in my kitchen. Anyone in the house can write on it, even guests! On days we just don’t feel grateful, we at least can find the little things to find gratitude in. How about having toilet paper, or a bed to sleep in, or a tooth brush to keep your teeth clean. There is always something to be grateful for.

2. What are you doing for self-care?

Your body needs connection, exercise, love, nourishment, and rest. How are you caring for yourself? When I feel emotionally, mentally and/or physically overwhelmed, I tend to get a little snappy with those around me. I have learned to recognize where in my body am I feeling most empty and exhausted. If I am emotionally exhausted because of caring for my mother with dementia, or dealing with a friend who is going through a rough time, I need to find a way to nourish my heart. Think about what part of you feels the most neglected or empty, your Mental, Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, Emotional, or Relational. Then find a way to nourish and love that part of you. Be creative with your self-care plans.

3. Who are you confiding in to let out what is bottled inside? Who are you connecting with?

If you are experiencing depression, something that can become a possible harm to you or someone else, reach out and talk to someone. And I mean a professional, not a friend, family member or pastor. These people will be your support network. As they are all great people to begin talking about how you are feeling, they are not usually qualified professionally to guide you through this time. Find someone who is experienced professionally to help you come up with a plan with your day-to-day struggles and your goals to work through what you are feeling.

Having purpose can help pull us through a difficult time. Is there something that brings you joy or somewhere you like to go? Take a friend and visit your favorite restaurant, or museum, or shopping village. Call a friend and meet in the park and take a nice walk together. Find positive people that can be an encourager to you right now. Is there someone you would trust to share what you are going through? Reach out and invite them out for coffee or tea and talk. Connecting with someone healthy will help you be accountable to process and move forward. Whatever you do, you don’t want to stay in the place that takes away your joy too long. Don’t pressure yourself to get over a loss if you are grieving. But if it is hurt you are feeling from disappointment, pursue an activity that is positive and healthy like listening to your favorite music or write a Haiku Psalter Poem!

Let your Joy journey begin!