Bridging the Gap Between our Good and Bad Days

Imagine the last bad day you had (don’t worry, just for a minute). Maybe you spilled your coffee, the first customer of the day was rude, or your dog left a little surprise for you on the carpet.

Finding a shred of patience—let alone kindness and gentleness—may have felt like a herculean feat.

Now, think of a time when everything felt right. A great day.

When life and plans are cooperating, everything falls into place. Little things—like holding open a door, paying it forward, and showing kindness—become second nature.

So how do we bridge the gap?

Like most of us, this is something I struggle with too.

One verse that has helped me reframe my mindset in these moments is Colossians 3:12:

“As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”

This was one of my first memory verses—one I wrote on a note by my desk and read throughout the day until I knew it by heart. Spending time with God’s Word helps reorient our minds to the direction we’re trying to go.

Speaking for myself, that direction is one of more connection, compassion, and kindness. And if you’re reading this, I think there’s a good chance you’re looking for something similar.

A Small Experiment
I invite you to join me in this little experiment. Jot this verse down somewhere you’ll see it—on your bathroom mirror, in your daily journal, or, like me, on a sticky note at your desk.

Throughout your day, take a moment to read it and reflect on what it means to put on these attributes in your daily interactions.

When it feels impossible—maybe you feel the heat rising in your cheeks, your temperature spiking, (is that actually steam coming out of your ears?)—see if you can pause for just a moment and think about the words of Colossians 3:12.

Maybe you will. Maybe you won’t - and that’s okay too.

We are going to stumble and fall along this journey. When that happens, take a moment to share it with God. Tell Him the struggle and give it up to Him.

Here’s where the real beauty of this practice comes in—commit yourself to trying again.

Maybe in the next moment, you’ll find just a little more space, and you’ll see an opportunity. It’s about baby steps, a commitment to trying, and trying again.

A Reminder of Grace
We are loved and never alone. Even on our worst days, God is with us.

Colossians 3:12 calls us to put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. But remember—these are not just qualities to extend to others. The work starts with showing yourself compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.

We’re not perfect, and that’s where grace comes in.

At the end of the day, take a moment to reflect:

Where did I show kindness today?
Where could I have done better?
Pray on it. Be open to God’s grace. Watch how these qualities begin to grow and bloom in your life and daily interactions.

Invitation to Pray & Meditate
Set a timer for five minutes (or whatever time works best for you). If you’re too busy for five minutes, try this: The next time you park your car or transition between two tasks, take a moment for five slow, intentional breaths.

1. Thank God for something in your life. What is something you’re grateful for?
2. Acknowledge your struggle. What has been difficult today? Share it with God and ask for help.
3. Be silent and listen. Remember that you are loved and you’re not alone.
4. Take one more deep breath. Let it out with a sigh.

If you try this, I’d love to hear how it goes for you! Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments or reflect privately—what does “putting on” these attributes mean for you today?

Note: This translation of Colossians 3:12 is from the New Catholic Bible Saint Joseph Edition