Sometimes it seems easier to escape into something routine, exciting, or new instead of addressing the issue.  Avoidance creates much stress and anxiety in the world today.  

I was taken aback when I heard the statistic that over our lifetime, between 12-18 years of our lives are spent on our phones.  Although I see many advantages of technology, to me, hours of scrolling through unnecessary information seem to be an escape from being present, avoiding the unknown, the silence, or the discomfort of being present in the moment.   

It might not be technology for all of us.  Some of us might escape to work, exercise, read, or pursue a hobby.  All of these are legitimate things that we do, but the problems arise when they become an avoidance, hiding our issues.

I was intrigued by an article in the WSJ, written by Jessica Slice.  In her 20’s she was a business owner, runner, and had a very outgoing social life.  At the time, she did not realize it, but she was living in the fast lane, covering up her insecurities.  Without warning, she developed a neurological disease that changed her life.

She lost her relationship, work, and friends, spending most of her day in bed or her electric wheelchair.  In time, however, something changed; she began to like herself.  She no longer expects herself to be perfect and realizes how little is within her control.

“My own disability meant I could no longer run away from my fundamental unhappiness.  I had to finally sit still and figure out who I was and what I valued apart from more conventional accomplishments.  When I discovered just how little of life I could bend to my will, I was able to appreciate better just how wondrous it could be.” (WSJ, April 19-20, 2025, pC3).  

My career consumed me, also.  It was my late husband who taught me to enjoy the journey.  My career never suffered, but my priorities changed.  I learned to put Jesus first, family second, and everything after that fell into place.

When I feel the need to escape, my go-to is prayer.  I give Jesus control and listen for direction.      

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