Welcome to 2025! Life feels increasingly surreal as we face peculiar challenges like mass drone sightings over populated areas. Coupled with the uncertainties of a new political administration, it’s easy to feel instability. Globally, nations appear to unravel, and within our borders, division deepens—traceable back to contentious events like the 2000 Bush vs. Gore election. Mistrust now extends beyond government to our neighbors. In this era, people cling to convenient truths, fueling division. Yet, division and unity are inherently contradictory; like a family fractured by discord, this instability erodes our foundations, diminishing faith and hope.
A shift in perspective may be the key. Rather than viewing society through a top-down lens—where unseen forces dominate, reminiscent of Orwell’s 1984—we must accept crises as inevitable. Some arise from deliberate actions, others from natural causes or human error. While we cannot control these events, we can control our responses and how much weight we allow them to carry.
Humans often resist change. Unfamiliar events can trigger fear and panic. Combined with eroded trust in institutions and perpetual unrest, external crises leave us vulnerable, lacking the foundation to endure tough times. Without trust or faith, maintaining normalcy becomes an uphill battle. But while we cannot change others, we can transform our own thoughts and actions. This inner peace radiates outward, influencing those around us. Think of someone whose calm, centered demeanor inspired you to emulate them—personal transformation can ripple outward, fostering broader change.
In a Crosswalk.com article, Michelle Lazurek outlined four ways to strengthen faith—practical steps for resilience during difficult times:
Be in Community
Isolation often feels natural when trust falters. Yet connecting with like-minded individuals—whether through faith groups, family, hobbies, or shared interests—can uplift your spirit and renew your faith in humanity. A supportive community bolsters mental and physical well-being, reminding us of the good in others.
Pray, Meditate, or Practice Spirituality
As spiritual beings, we manifest remarkable outcomes through prayer or meditation. Prayers—spoken goals or desires—serve as contracts with a Higher Power, combining intent with faith. Consistent practice strengthens our faith, allowing us to perceive extraordinary blessings. While not every wish is granted, the process nurtures resilience and perspective.
Remember the Past
Ancient people built cairns or monuments to commemorate significant events and pass down their stories. These reminders reinforced hope and connected present struggles to past triumphs. By recalling histories of overcoming challenges, we remind ourselves that resilience is possible, even in dire circumstances.
Love and Serve Others
Modern society often fosters judgment and isolation, deepening mistrust. Selfless service—donating food, funds, or time—breaks down barriers and fosters connection. Acts of kindness benefit recipients and renew our shared humanity, reaffirming hope and faith. As the saying goes, “The more you give, the more you receive.”
History shows civilizations navigating crises and golden ages alike. These cycles remind us that challenging times are opportunities to reaffirm and grow our faith. Embracing community, spirituality, remembrance, and service builds a foundation capable of withstanding adversity.
As we step into this new year, the choice is clear: Will we proceed with faith or succumb to fear? By choosing faith, we find strength for ourselves and become a source of hope for others. Together, we can face uncertainty with confidence, trust, and love.
Happy New Year!
Angela Bozorth
I am a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor with 20 years of experience in Florida and North Carolina. As a Recovery Specialist, I also support families of addicts in restoring focus and peace. To schedule personal or online sessions, contact me at 321-343-1975.
