Tick, tock… yes the traditional spelling not the app.
Tick, tock. The clock reveals time is indeed slipping into the future, yet as I was reminded yesterday a lot can happen in seven days.
Now that the palm fronds have been waved the winds shift in the direction of change reminding us by this week a Resurrection celebration is coming.
As uplifting as I know it is, I must “give up” something else for Lent. On this edition of “Becoming Today” I’ll try to say so long to discouragement.

Hello again Rochelle,
I think you need a little encouragement today. I know there has been so much going on for you lately and a friend told me you are battling feeling a little sub-par.
So I want to say do not be dismayed, things are getting better. I say that I know you hear me, yet when struggling with discouragement or in your immediate case trying to stay away from any discouraging thoughts it is challenging.
Another round in the battlefield of the mind, and those emotions of being less confident or less hopeful, can be caused by a variety of things.
When we feel discouraged, it can be difficult to see the positive aspects of our situation or to believe that we can achieve our goals. However, there are steps that we can take to overcome and move forward with our lives.
Begin by focusing on your strengths. That helps us to remember that we are capable and that we have the ability to overcome challenges. You can also remind yourself of past successes, which can help to boost our confidence and allow you to regain perspective.
It is also important to surround yourself with the right people. When we are surrounded by negative people, it can be easy to feel disheartened. However, surrounding yourself with positive people can lift your spirits and encourage you to keep going.
It is also important to take care of ourselves both physically and mentally. When feeling discouraged, it is important to get enough sleep, eat healthy, and exercise regularly.
Plus practicing self care is uplifting as well. Are you making time for fun? Laughing?
While discouragement is a normal part of life, it doesn’t have to control us.

By following these tips, we can overcome discouragement and move forward with our lives.
- Acknowledge your feelings. It’s important to acknowledge your feelings of discouragement instead of trying to push them away. Allow yourself to feel what you’re feeling, and don’t judge yourself for it.
- Talk to someone you trust. Talking to a friend, family member, therapist, or other trusted person can help you to process your feelings and feel supported.
- Write down your thoughts and feelings. Journaling can be a helpful way to express your emotions and to gain clarity about what’s going on.
- Practice self-care. Make sure you’re taking care of yourself both physically and mentally. This includes getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, exercising, and doing things that you enjoy.
- Set realistic goals. Don’t set yourself up for failure by setting unrealistic goals. Instead, set small, achievable goals that you can build on over time.
- Celebrate your successes. When you achieve something, take the time to celebrate your success. This will help you to stay motivated and focused on your goals.
- Don’t give up. Discouragement is a normal part of life, but it doesn’t have to stop you from achieving your goals. Keep going, even when things are tough.
Remember, you’re not alone. Everyone is discouraged at some point in their lives. The important thing is to reach out for help when you need it and to keep going, even when things are tough.
Need some encouragement? Reach out, I’ll be here.
Love,
Rochelle

Trials and tribulations will come. Even Jesus had to endure them. His 40-days in the wilderness battling discouragement, doubt and fear while preparing to be delivered His destiny is why we observe Lent each year.
If you’re struggling today here are a few verses to reflect upon:
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.
Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
Think about it. Pray about it. Meditate on it. Consider it and then decide to join us tomorrow for our next edition of “Becoming Today”.