Have you ever witnessed what happens when mentos are mixed with coke? The mentos cause the soda to slowly build up until it finally explodes. This is much like the way we would describe a pileup in a family crisis. Its basically a bunch of small stressors that pile up on a family until the members can't take it anymore, and they "explode" in their own way. Some people deny that anything bad happened. Its their way of protecting themselves from being hurt. While a little bit of denial yes, can be a protection mechanism, after awhile it can do more damage than good. For example, if a child dies, the natural first step of denial is a normal occurence. But if the denial continues, it can eat away at the person experiencing it. Another form of "exlpoding" or I guess the proper term is "coping" would be avoidance. Again, avoiding a situation for a little while can be a good thing, it allows the person to "take a breather" and think about their reaction. But avoidance for too long can cause a person to completely withdraw from those around them, and eventually the hurt can lead to depression and intense loneliness. These are not helpful feelings when trying to heal. Perhaps the most helpful way of coping would be a hope of the future. Again, going back to the example of experiencing the death of a child, having a belief that you will one day see that child again brings hope, and allows for healing. It does not take away the sadness, but it does strengthen our faith that everything will be ok. It allows us to carry on in the face of adversity, it shows resilience. I truly believe that a family's ability to be strong during crisis is their attitude. Happiness gives you a strength you never knew you had, and helps you to stay strong for your family and help others, which brings added strength. For those of you reading this, please know that there is hope. "hard times comes, but there is help and happiness ahead."
~Elder Holland.
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