Finding Comfort in the Midst of Suffering, feat. Kristen LaValley [S07-028]

Published: Jan. 25, 2024, 4:13 p.m.

We live in a broken world and suffering is inevitable. But, what are you going to do with what you\u2019ve gone through? Writer and storyteller, Kristen LaValley, Enneagram 5w4, offers a refreshing perspective on faith, spirituality, suffering, and the human experience. She joins me in an exploration of suffering and challenging our beliefs when they don\u2019t hold up in crisis or darkness.\xa0

As an Observer, Kristen explains what suffering is like for her, \u201cI go deep inside and compartmentalize like crazy,\u201d which can lead to detachment and broken connections.\xa0 As a five, \u201cI feel things deeply but struggle to express them outwardly in expected ways.\u201d This is common for Fives as they typically struggle to experience their feelings in the moment as they arise, and need time to think their way to their feelings.\xa0

In today\u2019s episode, we explore:\xa0

  • Why Fives compartmentalize their emotions and impact it has on their loved ones

  • What to do when traditional formulas and catchphrases are insufficient in times of pain and hardship

  • Finding God and experiencing His presence in the midst of our suffering

Author of the critically acclaimed book, \u201cEven If He Doesn\u2019t,\u201d Kristen asks, \u201cHow can I approach God when I\u2019m struggling to believe in His goodness?\u201d and challenges us to relax into the knowledge that even if things don\u2019t go our way, He is present with us through the pain and turmoils of life.\xa0

I hope this conversation challenges you to reflect on your own beliefs and find acceptance that there is no perfect explanation for suffering.\xa0 Until next time, "May you have love, may you have joy, may you have peace, may you have healing, and may you have rest.\u201d\xa0

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Kristen's Website: https://kristenlavalley.com

Pre-Order Your Copy of "Even If He Doesn't"

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