I made time to attend my veteran group meeting earlier this afternoon. We had another engaging session today. It’s no coincidence that we, these sisters and brothers, are brought together. Our facilitator, Dr. S, is a veteran who has walked a similar path to ours. She leads and guides us but never imposes. Dr. S's understanding and compassion are genuine; she is the real deal and has the group’s respect. In our group, everyone is caring, honest, and truthful, creating a safe space for us all.
The subjects today affected us all. We have so much in common emotionally that we empathize and sympathize with each other. However, I did not participate this time. I was too busy thinking of my doubts and fears and how I deal with them every moment of the day. Some may think that what works for them may not work for others, but if you don’t share what works for you, how will you know if it won’t? At least give the person a chance to work it out. I was selfish today and didn’t follow the Spirit’s calling to share Philippians 4-7. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Everyone has their cross to carry. Don’t be fooled or envious if their cross seems lighter than yours. Pray for divine wisdom and understanding because you don’t know what that person has been through, gone through, or found a way to make that burden appear lighter to an observer. I read 13 Bible verses each day to make it through the day. I know about depression, panic attacks, insecurity, and vulnerability. I know about distrust, discrimination, hatred, and envy. I sometimes seem overwhelmed, but I believe the words I read daily are accurate and truthful. I believe that if I trust God’s Words, whatever I go through, good or bad, He is still in control and loves me even if I don’t deserve it. Jeremiah 29:11 reads, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” The apostle Paul said, “For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38-39. I share these verses with you to inspire hope and remind you of the power of faith in our journey.
As the discussion unfolded, the elders stepped in with their wisdom. Yoyo suggested a lighthearted distraction, blaming bodily gas, while KT proposed a way to help family members cope with painful memories. Other members offered their insights and solutions. However, I stood on the sidelines, feeling I didn’t have enough time to contribute. Looking back, I deeply regret not seizing the opportunity to share my thoughts and experiences. I want to express my sincere apologies for not valuing your input more. My major obstacle was inserting God into the conversation without offending anyone. I sincerely believe that I would not be present without Him being by my side.
After reading, I do non-strenuous exercises, such as breathing, stretching, walking in place, alternating pumping my arms and holding them up towards the ceiling, and whatever may come to me, including push-ups and swinging my arms. The most important thing is remembering and being thankful for the blessings of family, friends, and life. Compared to the lives and experiences of others, we are blessed.
I go to bed early every night, even when traveling. I often struggle to fall asleep, and when I do, it's usually only for 2-3 hours. However, I reflect on the day's productivity and actions and express gratitude during this time. I strive to hear from God, "Well done," but I recognize that I'm still a work in progress. I understand the importance of sleep, rest, healthy eating, and exercise. I do my best, and if I fall short one day, I aim to do better the next. We stumble and fall but can get back up and start again. I fight a spiritual battle every day because I know that the enemy wants me to fail and give up. I’ve done wrong for so long that he doesn’t want me to do good. So, he finds ways to tempt me, return to former habits, and renounce my commitment to do better.
Keep in mind that these processes work for me. They are not a cure-all for sadness and hurt. Some days will be better than others. Try not to call them bad days, even if they are. They can still be worse but don’t take it personally or as divine punishment. Trouble won’t last forever. As we age, we change our eating and drinking habits. We can do the same with our thinking habits.
© Another Part of Things
