On September 11th most of us found ourselves glued to our TV sets. That was only natural, we wanted to know what was going on and we wanted to feel connected to others in our country. However, we have since learned that there are some things we can do to take better care of ourselves, and our children in crises. Here are just a few suggestions. We hope you will add your own.

For Children

If the crisis is being replayed repeatedly on TV and your children are watching it, turn off the TV set and let them ask you questions and answer them as honestly as you can.

Listen to their stories and create a safe place for them to bring their fears. They need to be able to talk about their memories and fears. When you pray together, encourage them to pray about their fears and concerns.

Encourage creative play, i.e. arts, drama, etc.

Your church might designate someone to be a “Children’s Pastor” during Sunday School to give children with particular concerns someone to listen to them.

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For Adults

It is important to try to be functional even while you are still upset or “out of balance”.

Slow down, you can start by slowing down your breathing and taking deep breaths.

Ask yourself what are you feeling? What are your biggest fears? Be honest. Fears are usually less powerful when they are faced.

Ask yourself “Where am I with God right now?” Don’t worry about being polite or theologically correct, just be honest. Tell God what you are feeling.

Find someone you feel “safe” with to talk to. This isn’t the time to talk with “difficult” people, save that for later when you feel more balanced. But talking to a friend can be a great solace.

Grief is an appropriate response to crises. Don’t be ashamed to cry. Remember Jesus expressed strong emotions, he wept when he came into Jerusalem. You may need to cry alone or be with others who share your grief.

Get outside and do something, go for a walk, exercise, work in your garden.

Dialogue with God. If you feel angry with God tell God why. This is Biblical, remember Moses and Abraham argued with God. I think God cherishes hearing the truth from us because real relationships are built on real honesty.

If you feel powerless it can be helpful to take an action. You might call or write your political leaders, the media, or others and politely express your opinion.

Get together with others, being in “community” is especially helpful in a crisis. Don’t be afraid to call a few friends to see if you can get together.
Keep a journal so you can identify what is helpful and what is not.
Help make your church a place where people of all persuasions can bring their faith questions in the midst of a crisis. To borrow from Micah, the church should be the place where together we can strive to “do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with God.”

Pay attention to your needs. What we need may differ from time to time. Sometimes we need to talk to God, sometimes we need to be alone, sometimes we need that one friend, sometimes we need community.