I wrote this book (and recorded a companion audiobook!) because I wanted to share a way of handling emotions that I’ve found useful, both for myself and in my counseling work with others. Most people I know are well-intended, but sometimes their emotions can get the best of them. I know it can be true for me!

When that happens, it has helped me to think of my soul as having parts, and to realize that I can lead these parts of myself from a loving place within me. For example, if I’m having strong feelings about someone, such as wanting to fix them or to change them, it helps me to realize that I may have a co-dependent part. Even the thought of it causes me to smile at myself in a tenderhearted way, and gain perspective. From that point, it’s not a big leap to help that co-dependent part from the more mature “grown up” place inside. How about trusting God with this situation? I can say to myself.

The Psalmist spoke to his soul often, such as in Psalm 42:11: “Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me?” Or Psalm 103:1, “Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name.” And then Psalm 131:2 says, “I have calmed and quieted my soul.” So, we see this concept is nothing new, really, but I’m talking about more intentionally applying this soul-talk specifically to you and your personal life.

Is a part of you “cast down” or feeling another way? Angry? Envious? Ashamed? Whatever the feeling, get to know the well-meaning part of you feeling that way. And when you do, I hope it gives you some perspective and makes you smile.