There are so many words, unfathomable dimensions of spiritual truth and so many beautiful texts and prayers to read and contemplate.
Then there is just this moment in the silence, which requires me to be present and awake in my faith, however shaky it seems.
The thoughts and projections that come from a state of pain just don’t ring true. It’s good when I can recognize that quickly and not follow them down “into the pit.”
Sometimes they do capture me, and I follow them down, and notice there is always a chance to transform a despairing thought into a prayer.
Despair is a lockdown in a no-escape trap.
Prayer lifts me up.
In the worst moments when relief is not forthcoming, it’s a good thing to recognize the difference and remember the subtle uplifting of prayer is always available to me, thank God.
In this moment.
May it Be Blessed: An Orthodox journal 