I’ve fallen into a rut – a deep one. Extreme stress is a double-edged sword. It can push you through the most difficult challenges until it takes you out at the knees. The aftermath is real and can be really painful. Now the choice is bitter or better. At this point I’m somewhere in-between. So this is part two of my last post.
To be perfectly honest, I lost one of the ‘keys’! The hardship became so intolerable that my endurance ultimately failed. The irony is that literally, the hardest days and the worst was over. Well, nope and not by a long shot!! Aftereffects of extreme physical and emotional demands are as real as real can be! My heart was broken and although I continued to pray, I wasn’t patient for answers. Actually, I’m sure He did answer and it was my fault that I missed it. I’m ashamed that I became sad and bitter instead of trusting in God’s plan. Bitterness is all too prolific in this world we live in and nothing good can come from disappointed hearts unless you pick up the pieces.
When you’re down, remember this:
“You can expect to meet Jesus in the most unlikely place – at the intersection of expectation and disappointment.”
John Koessler
I’m sure you’re familiar with the “Life Is Good” brand. What a great idea two brothers had to create something that’s simply happy! No one really wants to be down; it’s our nature to want and need positivity. The success those guys have had proves that! BUT, there’s always a “but” and a “condition.” We have to love God and that means obeying, trusting, serving and praising Him. Love is not about perfection; it’s not about never failing, it’s the relationship needed to fulfill our purpose.
“Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” Romans 5:5
Can you imagine how good life can be when we choose to be better – not bitter? Now I can.
I love how open and honest you are. It really shows your strength when you can go through the hardest times that knock you down, but you realize your faith and get back up again. The “fall 7 times, stand up 8” comes to mind. No matter how many times it takes, you can always find your way back up, especially with God’s will. And I’m so proud of you for that 💓
When heartbreak comes to a loved one it is shared onto all of us and that’s when we should lean on family the most. Family and friends along with prayer for support through the hard times in our lives is necessary to keep us on the right path that is best for you. I’m glad you have the strength to go through the difficult and emotional stress of witnessing and caring for your aging parents, you have been a gift and blessing to them. The your writing is a gift from your heart to ours