No, it really is a pain if we inflict unnecessary negativity on those around us. Self-pity, feeling sorry for ourselves (oh, poor me!) is a drag for others and totally unhelpful for us as well.
And, of course, there's life events, chemical imbalances & heaps of other things that seriously make us feel down. For good reason!
As always, the Bible relates to all this. Everyday humanity is what the Scriptures know. And we shouldn't pretend to always feel great if this just isn't the case. So the Bible has plenty of not-all-together positive writings in it. And some of it's really down - Ecclesiates, much of the prophets, many of the Psalms.
Hard to find struggling Psalms in today's songbooks. But we desperately need songs expressing all that we are & feel. I've written a few like it, but I need to do a whole lot more.
'Then I will praise you' is based on Ps 42-43.
Some people in Wisconsin found the first line pretty hard.
1. When I feel miserable, down and depressed,
worthless, I feel that I've never been blessed,
You hold me gently with your unseen hands.
Later I'll see you, my friend.
Then I will praise you, God, I will praise you.
Then I will praise you, my saviour, again.
2. You seem so far away, you, and your light;
darkness has covered me, thick as the night;
I've lost direction, I can't find my way.
God, bring this night to an end!
3. Send out your light and truth, they'll be my guide.
Where there's your light and truth, troubles subside.
Fill me with wonder, surprise me with joy.
Only on you I depend.
