We moved to a new city this week.
We packed the majority of our stuff into a U-Haul truck on Monday (with the help of family and friends).
It took way longer than we had estimated. The truck wasn’t full and we had some things left scattered through various rooms of the house, but we had had enough. It was time to go! (We have a small trailer we can use next week to get the rest.)
I was surprised at how embarrassed I felt about some of my things when I realized that people would be looking at them as they carried them to the truck.
So many boxes marked “R – Crafts”!
The beat up old dresser I keep some of my supplies in.
Boxes and boxes of books.
I hid some things, stashing my underwear in a suitcase so curious eyes couldn’t look. Other personal items were boxed up and taped tightly shut so no one could see them.
But most of our stuff was right out there in the open for all to see. No one voiced any opinions about our belongings (although the guys did ask “What is this?” when they contemplated a “unique” wooden box with assorted drawers—Allison had made it in shop class and I can’t part with it). If we wanted help with moving we needed to let people see our stuff.
I think it’s similar with our emotional “stuff.”
Some of the things we feel can embarrass us. Depression, anxiety, anger, shame.
We can try to hide them, stuffing them down where no one can see or covering them up with more acceptable emotions.
But if we want help, we need to let other people see our stuff.
We’re starting a new year. Let’s resolve to get rid of some of our physical clutter in 2022 (I know I moved way too many things I seldom use), but let’s also make plans to be real about the emotional baggage we’ve been carrying for way too long.
Let people see your stuff and ask them for help. That should make this a happy new year!
“Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.” (Colossians 3:9–10 NIV)
Do you try to hide your “stuff” (physical or emotional)? How can focusing on God help you to let people see it and help you with it?
Boy, can I relate to this post. I’m doing both! I’m in the middle of a major move, plus my mom is moving at the same time. We’ve had tons of boxes and stuff that our movers–four strong males who are relatives!–had to see. It was awkward at times, but nothing embarrassing.
Also we have company for the holidays in the midst of moving, so with boxes everywhere and people and pets all in confusion, emotions are running wild. I’ve had to confide countless times in a close friend my emotional frustrations, all the ups and downs. Thankfully she understands and keeps praying for all of us.
Life is really tough and messy at times, but letting trusted people in can be a tremendous support.