Throughout these last 3 weeks, I've heard some unbelievable stories of abuse, pain, and hopelessness. Some of the people that I've been in group with has suffered through such amazing abuse I just don't know how they held it together long enough to live as long as they did. And my guess is that there are hundreds, if not thousands, more people walking around in our daily lives - cashiers, bank tellers, joggers, that lady that smiles at you at the mall and then the one that gives you the nasty stare - that are harboring pasts quite similar to those I've heard this week.
One thing I've learned is that, unfortunately, it seems that previous childhood abuses of all kinds, alcoholism, and drug addiction within the family, and other hurts are really common. I'm not saying that all of our parents sucked, but what I am saying is that it seems rare to come across someone my age these days that had an idyllic childhood and that follows them their entire life.
While I had some terrible experiences in my life, there are plenty of people out there that have gone through a lot more than me. And they have persevered. They may be broken and trying desperately to heal, but they have not given up on life. Many of these people have a strong spiritual side to lean on. They are relying on Jesus to carry them.
So the next time that angry driver cuts you off or your co-worker annoys you to the ends of the earth, remember that there may be things in their life that are worse than you could ever imagine. Or perhaps they are just having a bad day/week/year and unfortunately, you got in the way. Remember that Jesus taught us to love and turn the other cheek and that most people that are suffering are doing so alone, with no psychological help, not knowing how to talk to their families about it, and just trying to get by the best way that they know how.
James 1:12 - Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
12 comments:
Very moving post Erin, and true. I try to remember that there are certainly people out that that have had it rougher than me. However, in those moments of my pain, it is very easy to turn off the voice of reason and turn on the station of self pity. Yeah, occasionally I have a pity party for myself- not gonna lie, how long I let myself stay down really is up to me. At times it's days and at other times months, but I know I will climb out of that valley and back on top of the mountain. Hope you are feeling better these days. :)
The third saying is sooo me! I am really like that...
thank you for reminding us not to judge...
as my hubby says...we live in a glass house too so there's no way we're throwing any stones....
What you say is true. It leads to compassion for others.
Glad you're doing better.
Your post is a good reminder for all of us. I especially like the first saying about how we wouldn't trade our problems in for those of another.
Oh Erin, this is a very poignant post. I always try to remind myself to be nice to everyone, because everyone is going through something. And I love your quote at the beginning. How very sad but true.
All so very true Erin! We never know what people suffer through. I have been very blessed in my own life and my heart goes out to everyone who suffers at the hand/voice of someone else. May they find a peace that only He can offer...
Blessings my friend!
My husband sees me getting all tense and crazy and says "deep breaths" and forces me to take at least one. It usually helps. Sometimes I need two or three though...
It always comes back to compassion, doesn't it? How quickly I forget that sometimes. Thank you for the reminder.
Hope you are well.
I love the first quote about grabbing our "stuff" back after we see what others are going through.
My husband says my spiritual gift is "sight" into others' lives, prophecy. I can see truth when others can't and bring it to light. It's a gift and a burden to see the hurts other people are trying to hide. But it's our call to be Jesus' hands and feet.
[I'm writing a new blog, in addition to My Girls: iamthat-shawna.blogspot.com; come see me!]
That first quote is so very true. A lot of times we just need to look at the person next to us too know how good we have it.
~Kimberlee
www.TheSpunkyDiva.blogspot.com
200 Follower Giveaway in Progress
This is a really useful lesson for me today. I've been complaining because of a few very minor disappointments, but they are miniscule compared with some people's problems.
So true, Erin!
Post a Comment