Resetting Amidst Turmoil
Today’s blog will have a new angle. This blog isn’t about a book update; it’s more of an uplifting message and a pep talk for those willing to read it.
Frankly, it’s been a tough and difficult year for many Americans. Given the recent events in our country and the world, I wanted to offer a brief message to the many people who have accompanied me on my book series’ journey.
Occasionally, the world’s noise seems deafening. The continuous barrage of news and information makes it simple to feel uneasy and powerless, as if we are being swept away. Sometimes, I think about the world before technology and social media existed. Have you? So curious what it was like as a millennial writing this. I digress.
It’s easy to feel unsteady and to allow external turmoil to disrupt our inner peace in situations like this. But I’ve been reminded lately of the deep need to actively seek a “reset.” It’s not about ignoring what’s happening, but about finding intentional moments to re-center on the things we care about most so we can respond from a place of courage and strength, not fear.
As parents, I would propose this practice is vital. Our children are watching. They may not understand the specifics of the headlines, but they feel the tension and the hurriedness we carry. When we choose to find stillness, when we choose to press into God, we are not only nurturing our own souls; we are modeling for them how to live with peace and courage in an uncertain world. In a world where we can’t control everything.
I’ve come to believe that the things we value most can be the very springboard that launches us into seasons of boldness. For example, while you and I may have different stances on faith. . . for myself, the words of Jesus in John 16:33 have ran true to me in this hour. . .
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” -John 16:33 NASB
Tangibly speaking, I recently put this “reset” into practice with a couple of my good gym friends, committing to a complete break from social media for an extended period. While this is not beneficial for my business or authorship, there are simply things that are more important in this life than many narratives we see daily.
To those who are new here, I write wholesome fantasy books with the purpose of motivating future generations of kids to act with integrity and goodness. It involves giving them positive stories that portray good triumphing over evil, emphasizing the importance of doing the right thing despite difficulties, and many other valuable lessons.
I encourage you to find your “reset” this week or perhaps the next couple of months. Don’t wait for the world to slow down, because it won’t. Take a moment to step away from the noise, find a little stillness, and fill your own cup. You can’t pour from an empty one.
You are a source of strength for those around you, whether you believe it, and taking a moment to reset is a good thing you can do.
I hope you have a great rest of the week. I look forward to sharing some new illustrations from my upcoming book, “Book 3: The StolenNecklace” soon!
Until then go in peace!
Blessings,
Andrew K. Johnston
