27 Words That Create Hope & Remove Helplessness.

Unique Perspectives: 27 Words That Create Hope & Remove Helplessness.

By Kim Stevens

I’m going to share something pretty embarrassing with you: Years ago, I spent a lot (and I mean a lot) of time focused on trying to change things I couldn’t change or fix things that were not mine. And yes, most of those changes involved people. 

I used to think: But if I could only get them to do this, or think like that, or say things a different way then – then! – I could find happiness. I could experience hope. I could release this nagging feeling of helplessness or guilt that accompanied every scenario when I’d try to force change. In the end, I’d wind up feeling frustrated and defeated when it just didn’t happen.

My failure to change these things kept me in a state of living paralysis, and prevented me from doing the myriad of things I COULD do, the things that would actually make my life better. Instead, I was hopelessly, helplessly stuck in place. 

Then I learned the Serenity Prayer and in the twenty seven words it contains, began to understand how to find hope and serenity, and let go of failure. It’s a prayer I practice daily. It’s become integrated into my very being: “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.” 

Understanding the philosophy of the Serenity Prayer is one of the greatest gifts I have ever received. It’s brought me so much clarity, peace and empowerment. When I recite this prayer, I’m reminded I can allow people and situations to be who and what they are. 

The Serenity Prayer has also become a powerful practice for my family. When my kids were growing up, I would recite the prayer with them, especially if something happened they’d feel bad about but couldn’t change. My son Jake grew to love the prayer so much that he asked me to write it in my handwriting – what he calls his “favorite font” – so he could have it tattooed on his ribs. The Serenity Prayer is now permanently part of him, just like it’s so profoundly ingrained in me. 

Having faith that everything is rigged in my favor helps. Looking for the miracle helps. Once I let go of what I can’t change, I am almost instantaneously inspired to find the courage to change what I can. In the Serenity Prayer I recognize that limitless wisdom comes from knowing the difference between the two.