More on Denial: Say it isn't so!

The long-term problem with denial comes when you cannot keep on moving through it. If you cannot allow yourself to see the unpleasant reality that has intruded into your life, you won't be able to do what you must:

• finding a new job
• starting to grieve
• getting your finances in order
• getting out of a toxic job, marriage, relationship, etc.
• stopping abuse

Denial can leave you trapped, unable to work through your grief, unable to take action when you must, unable to draw up a will while you have the strength. You may stay with an employer who demoralizes you, or contribute to a loved one's addiction.

The substance abuse recovery movement calls this not seeing the elephant in the living room. Living like the elephant of your problem is not there, can be a full-time job.

Denial was built for your survival, but it was not intended for a permanent hideout. If you move in permanently, you can miss the rest of your life. Don't do it. You may miss some pain temporarily, but you'll miss the joy, the hope, and the comfort God offers freely to you.