while, I was unaware that who I am was exactly what my kids needed in a mother. Once I realized my value, I didn’ t need to be anyone else. I took off my mask and our house quickly changed from hustle and worry to fun and fluid.
Q: You candidly describe your own struggles with depression and an attempt at suicide. What changed for you? Describe the moment you discovered you could“ embrace freedom and experience defiant joy.”
A: I believe my struggle with depression and my suicide attempt were a direct result of fighting comparison. Have you heard the old quote,“ comparison is the thief of joy”? Well. Yeah. That about sums up what was going on internally with me. Not only that, but coupled with the fact that I didn’ t believe people were laughing WITH me, but AT me … it was a perfect storm. I felt tired of being the object of everyone’ s joke. And, like many others who have dealt with suicidal thoughts, you really feel hopeless in a moment where your thoughts overwhelm and overtake rationale.
The moment for me changed when one of my roommates found me and confronted me with compassion and empathy. She walked with me until the next morning light. And sometimes that’ s all it requires to being to embrace freedom: to get through the night and make it to the next day with someone who will walk with you, believe in you, and remind you of who you really are.
Q: The truth is, we have all been wounded in one way or another. Life can be very difficult sometimes and we often get hurt. Some people, unfortunately, choose to stay stuck in the“ hurt.” What has helped you the most to move past the wounds, past the hurt, to find healing and joy?
A: In a very practical way, I’ d like to offer up what’ s worked for me when processing hurtful words. First off, check the weight of the words that have hurt or wounded you. Sometimes the words come from strangers online, bullies, or acquaintances that don’ t truly know you. Those words carry very little weight in the way I repeat and receive them as a truth about myself. Now, if its someone that knows me well, loves me, has been a voice of encouragement for me in times past?
I find myself listening with a more intentional ear when they offer
48 Solutions