About This Blog

My blog shares my recovery journey from childhood abuse to living with mental illness. I've been involved in twelve step groups and therapy since 1982. I accepted Jesus as my Savior in 1988. To the best of my ability, I have followed where He wants me to go and what He wants me to do. Maybe you'll find the hope and strength you need through what I write. Maybe you want to stop hurting yourself. Maybe you have a friend who needs help and can benefit from my story. I was newly disabled when I asked God this question: "What do you want me to do with my life?" I closed my eyes and paused for a few moments to still my mind. This is what I sensed from Him: "Amy, I want you to write your story to bring hope and healing to those who are still suffering." And that's exactly what I am doing!

Sunday, August 10, 2014

Lunch With A Friend

I am blessed to have a handful of friends I look forward to seeing. It was a lunch where she needed me to listen to what's been going on in her life for the past couple of months.  

It's when you put down what you're eating so that you are not distracted and can fully focus on what she's saying.  It's looking into her eyes and when they get teary, your heart melts.

Sometimes friends don't reveal the details of what they're going through when they are going through it because they don't want to be a burden.  My friend felt that way.  I reassured her that she would never be a burden.  Still, I hope the next time she has a crisis, she will know she can call me.

One thing she gave me a heads up on was wanting to ask me questions about mental illness.  I talked about some things I hadn't really shared with anyone.  I felt a little uncomfortable and shifted around in my seat.  I wasn't sure if I was making sense or if I was answering the questions.  I'd forgotten them.  I think I did okay.

One of the things that still amazes me is when my friend shares very personal stuff with me.  I want to throw a flag up and say, "Hey, remember me?  I'm the one with mental illness.  Are you sure you want to tell me what's been hurting your heart?"

You know what she says?  I'm endearing and whoever doesn't want to be my friend is an idiot.

Ha!  That always makes me laugh.

I love my friend very much.  She has such a gentle squishy heart.  She loves people.  I really hope God gives her the desire of her heart very soon.  

God, please keep my dear friend safe in your loving care.  Free her mind from worry.  Give her loved one conviction to make the right decisions.  Protect the lamb.  Guide my friend regarding her vocation and living arrangement.  Let her have peace beyond all understanding.  In Jesus' name, Amen.