Welcome to Talkinsen, a space where I explore religious and social topics from a thoughtful, often critical perspective.
This blog is a follow-up to my previous reflection on the major events that shaped 2020—racism, police brutality, and other heavy societal issues. Today, I want to share something more personal: how I coped with the physical, emotional, and spiritual toll of the year. My hope is that my story and strategies will help you process your own experiences and nurture better mental wellbeing for the future.
Digging Deep—What Does It Really Mean?
By nature, I’m optimistic and self-motivated. I’ve always been able to find joy in small things and have been known (sometimes naively) to believe the best in people. But 2020 challenged me in ways I’d never experienced before. I had to dig deeper than I ever had.
A simple Google search defines “digging deep” as tapping into your inner strength to live out your values and overcome obstacles. For me, it meant surrender—letting go of what I thought I had to control, leaning into faith, becoming more spiritually connected, and seeking deeper meaning in life. I had to play strong even when I felt weak. I prayed for direction and begged God to guide my steps.
Holding On to Faith—and Fighting Back
When the world felt like it was crumbling, I turned to my Creator. I prayed for peace, for justice, and for healing—for myself and for others. I asked for a renewal of the fruits of the Holy Spirit, and I began engaging more deeply in intercessory prayer. This form of prayer isn’t just about asking for help; it’s about standing in the gap for others, especially in dark times.
I reflected on the Book of Daniel, Job, and the temptations of Jesus. These scriptures reminded me that tests refine faith, while temptations try to destroy it. This insight helped me recognise the difference and lean into spiritual resilience.
The Power of Praise and Worship
At one point, even listening to worship music felt irritating. But I pushed through—and in time, I found healing in the lyrics and melodies. Just like Paul and Silas sang in prison, I discovered that praise awakens God’s presence within us.
Watching Christian YouTube content helped, too. A special shoutout to Dapheny, whose videos rekindled my spiritual fire. Her prayer sessions helped lift me out of spiritual darkness and inspired me to engage in spiritual warfare prayers—powerful tools in rebuilding my emotional and spiritual strength.
Playing Strong When You Feel Weak
“Play strong to be strong.” That became my personal mantra. Even when I felt anxious, unmotivated, or doubtful, I pushed forward. Motivation wasn’t always there, so I had to generate it myself. That’s the difference between motivation and self-motivation. One relies on external sources; the other comes from within.
I learned to act despite the fear. Even small steps mattered. I forced myself to engage socially, even when I didn’t feel like it. I worked, I created, and I smiled—even if it was through tears. And little by little, things improved.
Redefining Yourself
2020 also forced me to reevaluate who I am and what matters most. Redefining yourself requires self-awareness and confidence—not the arrogant kind, but a grounded confidence in who you are and who you’re becoming.
I questioned everything: my ability, my faith, my direction. But instead of reacting, I learned to reflect. Was this challenge revealing something in me that needed attention? Or was it more about others’ projections?
I also embraced what I call “Christ confidence”—a sense of worth rooted not in people’s opinions, but in God. When Jesus was questioned about His identity, He didn’t waver. He knew where He came from and where He was going. That kind of clarity is powerful.
Tap Into Positive Memories—Keep Smiling
I began blogging last year as a creative outlet, and one of my earliest pieces was about the power of smiling. I didn’t plan on becoming a blogger—it just happened. But that blog reminded me of joy and still lifts my mood every time I revisit it.
So, I encourage you: tap into positive memories. Let them bring you comfort and strength.
Final Reflections and Tips
As I wrap up this reflection, here are a few final tips that helped me and might help you too:
- Disconnect to reconnect. Take time away from social media, the news, even certain people. Not forever, but just long enough to hear your own thoughts again.
- Set a target. If you isolate to heal, give yourself an end date and a goal. This helps your mind stay focused and grounded.
- Be intentional. Take stock of your influences. Are they shaping you positively or negatively?
- Move your body. Exercise and eat well. A healthy body really does support a healthy mind.
- Fast purposefully. Fasting isn’t just about food—it’s about spiritual clarity. As scripture reminds us, “Man shall not live by bread alone.”
Thank you for taking the time to read my journey. If this blog resonated with you, share it with someone who might need encouragement. Let’s keep digging deep, healing, and growing—together.
Until next time, stay grounded, stay hopeful, and stay you. 💛
— Ogechi, Talkinsen
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