As I browsed my Facebook timeline this morning, I saw a number of posts speaking to personal, deeply personal issues many of my Facebook friends have been going through. Most of it was related to illness. Other posts were related to attempted suicide and survival, still other posts were related to dating or the attempt to find a suitable mate. Some people were facing diagnostic tests and surgeries while others were reflecting on how far they have come on their journey. No matter what the circumstance was I am thankful that they had the courage and conviction to share what they had gone through. Their testimony can lead to a breakthrough or deliverance for someone else.
As I reflect, there were many things that I have experienced in my life and I am thankful that God has given me the strength and at times the platform to share my life experiences. I was the product of teenage parents, yet I did not repeat the cycle. I have had various family members that were addicted to alcohol or drugs, which had significant impacts not just on my life but on the lives of other family members as well. I was molested as a child and I have endured health challenges and relationship issues. But through it all, I survived, I looked for lessons to be learned and I became a better person because of what I experienced and in spite of what I experienced.
For people of faith we know that if it had not been for the Lord on our side… For those who are not people of faith, I am not sure where your strength and endurance comes from maybe role models or strong support system, but for those who believe, in the absence of role models and support systems we go to the Rock! It tales strength and courage to make it through those challenges that seem impossible to bear. It takes even more strength and courage to talk about your experiences and to be a beacon of hope for others. What I have learned is that as you GROW through what you GO through the lesson is lost on you. It is more so for others so that they can see God in you and know that THIS TOO SHALL PASS.
Stop suffering in silence. We were not meant to do that. We were meant to be a blessing to others, but, know that you cannot be a blessing until you have healed and dealt with the issues that you face. You don’t want to try to help someone when you are still in the throes of your experiences. Once you have healed, whether it be getting help from a professional, working on your own issues, reaching out to those who love you make sure to NOT suffer in silence. And know that there is always a rainbow after the rain.
This Single Sole 