Keep Your Chin Up

We all have a natural tendency to try and cheer up someone when life knocks them down. We say things like, “Don’t worry. Everything will work out, you’ll see.” We remind them that they have been through tough times before, overcame them, and they will again.  We add on the “you’ll see” for good measure. How many times have we said to someone, “You’ll be fine” even if we know the battle they face is very  difficult, such as those struggling with cancer?

A phrase that people tend to use a lot is “keep your chin up.” This means to remain cheerful in difficult circumstances. Well! We all know how difficult that is right? Yet these affirmations are meant to encourage someone to not lose hope. Difficulties can range from the size of a pebble to an intimidating mountain. Often things do not work out and it can be a long time before a person feels fine. Still reassurance helps keep us from despair. It reinforces that we are not alone. Often someone else is struggling with a similar problem or sadly, worse.

In times of struggle don’t be afraid to ask for help. Don’t get upset if someone says “this too shall pass” or some variation of those words. They are simply trying to offer reassurance and comfort. Do tell yourself to keep your chin up and before long that cheerfulness will spread and you will smile, laugh and genuinely feel better despite your difficulties. “Let go and let God.”

“Health does not always come from medicine. Most of the time it comes from peace of mind, peace in the heart, peace of the soul. It comes from laughter and love.” ~ Unknown

Everything will be ok,

Valerie