Punctuation and Emotions

Punctuations may be small symbols at the end of a statement, but they change how the words feel.

A period at the end of a statement can feel cold and emotionless:

“Okay.”

A question mark can feel unsure or confused:

“Okay?”

An exclamation point can feel warm and exciting or even angry:

“Okay!”

In the same way, what we feed our hearts shows up in how we treat and get treated by others.

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” (Proverbs 15:1)

The Semicolon of Hope

Founded by Amy Bleuel, the semicolon (;) has become a symbol of mental health and hope. In writing, it means the sentence could have ended but didn’t. In life, it means your story isn’t over. When life feels heavy, God gives us strength to keep going.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18)

Just like punctuation gives structure to writing, Jesus showed us the importance of pauses in life:

“But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” (Luke 5:16)

Feeding the Body:

What we eat fuels our strength.

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you… Therefore honor God with your bodies.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

Feeding the Mind:

What we watch, read, listen to, and dwell on shapes our emotions.

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” (Proverbs 4:23)

Feeding the Spirit:

God’s Word is our true nourishment. Feeding your spirit with it every day will give you new life.

“Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4)

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” (Romans 12:12)

Your Story Isn’t Finished

In conclusion, life is full of commas, periods, and semicolons. You may feel like your situation is putting a period at the end of your story, but God is still writing.

Pause if you need to.

Rest if you must.

But don’t give up—your story is still being written!

“He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6)

Remember family you are loved;

you are prayed for;

and You are a child of GOD!

Eddie McDonald