VENTING… or COMPLAINING?

I’ve been thinking a LOT about this lately… because I understand the need to vent sometimes but none of us wants to be considered a complainer, right?

So, many times we may say… “I’m NOT complaining… I’m venting.”

But what’s the difference between complaining and venting? 

So, I looked it up and the Dictionary reads:

COMPLAIN: Express dissatisfaction or annoyance about something.

VENT: The expression or release of a strong emotion, energy, etc. To give free expression to (a strong emotion).

So, I’m thinking now… if I’m expressing “dissatisfaction or annoyance” AS I vent… then I AM complaining…  and I’m not sure that’s helpful for me.

So, I looked it up and found that there is science that says yes… it IS helpful to vent and express dissatisfaction or annoyance… IF… I want to be a negative person.

Interesting, huh?

Since I DON’T want to be a negative person, I’m going to pay more attention to what I “vent” about. 

How about you? 

NOTE: On the opposite end of the spectrum I ALSO found an article that describes how GRATITUDE can rewire your brain… IN A GOOD WAY and make you happier. 

Neuroscience Reveals: Gratitude Literally Rewires Your Brain to be Happier

Maybe instead of venting, we focus on something for which we can be grateful.

Come to think of it… that reminds me of a Church hymn I love. It’s called, “Count Your Many Blessings.”

When upon life’s billows you are tempest-tossed,

When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,

Count your many blessings; name them one by one,

And it will surprise you what the Lord has done.

Are you ever burdened with a load of care?

Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?

Count your many blessings; ev’ry doubt will fly,

And you will be singing as the days go by.

When you look at others with their lands and gold,

Think that Christ has promised you his wealth untold.

Count your many blessings; money cannot buy

Your reward in heaven nor your home on high.

So amid the conflict, whether great or small,

Do not be discouraged; God is over all.

Count your many blessings; angels will attend,

Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.

Count your blessings;

Name them one by one.

Count your blessings;

See what God hath done.

Here’s the point. When things are tough… when times are hard… when we feel discouraged… THAT’S the time to REFOCUS on gratitude.

Gotta go. I’m off to do more counting.

How about you?