Running On Empty

I was contemplating what a good piece would be for today, and came up empty. Really, like feeling a bit dry, running on low. I feel the need to keep it real here. It is important and also encourages others who struggle, as I do, to do the same. My life and emotions are just zapping me these days. I have a bit going on in the personal baggage department. And, then of course the holidays and all those mixed feelings, as I shared here. Shorter, cooler days and less sun also aid in my depression and insomnia flare ups.

So what do you do when things just get too overwhelming? Or like myself you find you’re running on empty?

Well, I have found that blogging has been a great therapy for me. But, it’s not always a place I can freely flow with every thought. So, finding a creative outlet elsewhere has been key for me too, over the years. Drawing and music are valuable to me. I can sit for hours just putting pencil to paper and playing a collection of eclectic artists. I go from heavy medal and hard rock all the way to piano music. With my creative flow it takes on a personality of its own. I will figure out as I go, as the music moves me. Sometimes it’s interesting what comes out at the end, often quite based on my musical connections.(Be sure to see my drawing below.)

Last, I cannot express how much finding kindred souls has helped! Through blogging I have found many that connect with me on different levels of understanding and empathy. Those that touch base with me daily and extend words of kindness to me. Going perhaps on just a vibe from an emotional piece I’ve written. These I cannot treasure enough. It is salve to the soul to have these connections.

Empathy is a beautiful and refreshing quality, but can also be abused by others. As an empath, I find myself at times drained. The world likes to siphon strength from me, down to my heart and soul, until nothing but my shell remains. The arts, writing, music and blogging- these are the fuel that I must use to refill and empower myself. It does take time and effort, but I do know that this too shall pass.

I cannot emphasize enough how much it means to me when you leave a comment, even just a “hello” brightens my day. So, thank you!

The below came of listening to Poison’s “Every Rose Has A Thorn” and Bon Jovi’s “Bad Medicine” 🙂

©Every Rose by SBDMB (MM)