Welcome to the Third Thursday Bog Hop with Hearts at Home!http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/jillsavage/hlLQ/~3/ETVEsgsFuas/
Hmmm. Love Your Struggles, huh? I've read the scripture about "being thankful in all circumstances", but it is usually followed quickly with some disclaimer about "that doesn't mean you have to be thankful for the circumstance." It seems perfectly acceptable to grin and bear it while gritting your teeth, as long as we can find some silver lining or thank God we aren't as bad off as someone else. I can live quite comfortably with that, even though not always very happy.
But lately, I have been challenged to "take it up a notch". Through several Bible Studies, things I've read, listened to or just felt in my heart, God wants me to see and embrace the beauty in those less than pretty places of my life.
I have dealt with depression to varying degrees for many years, which is terrifying to admit in a public forum such as the internet, in large part because most people I know around town wouldn't believe it. They see me as such a happy, positive person who has everything going for her. I have worked hard for that reputation and put on my happy face when my insides were churning, but it has come with a price. I have a very nicely decorated pit where I go all alone, because "what would people think if they really knew?"
Lately, though, I have invited a few people in and started some redecorating. Part of the redecorating is realizing that my depression causes me to lean on God more. Whatever the cause is at the time, be it hormonal, chemical, bad attitude, hunger, sleep deprivation, fight with spouse or simply that the rings of Saturn didn't line up that morning, I have turned to God. I've come to thank Him for those moments and pray I will continue to draw closer to Him. I still have moments where I am far from grateful, but I also have more moments of genuine joy.
I have also learned to be a little easier on myself. I still have a long way to go, but I'm getting better at focusing on how far I've come. I have so many other things that I struggle with, but I also know that many other people struggle with some of the same things. I dream of a day when my struggles can help encourage others, especially moms. Even while I flop around with "my act" scattered in a thousand different directions, maybe I can encourage someone else to enjoy their zig zagged path through life a little more and love themselves more.
