“There have been many times when our family has found itself in the midst of an adventure . . . like the time we were in rural Africa and the rugged airstrip where our tiny plane had just landed was actually too short for the return takeoff,” writes Catherine P. Downing, author of Sparks of Redemptive Grace.
“It was a bit scary as we watched
the pilot work through various plans to extend the length of the runway. He
concocted a number of configurations for adjustments and finally we were able
to leave.
“It’s a story I love to tell (and
in more detail), and there are many, many more.
“In fact, for all of us, our lives
are composed of a series of stories that string together and provide markers
for our memories and moments.
“We have stories of childhood
pranks (like when my older brother dared me to sit in my second birthday cake,
and I did), teenage dramas and vacation fiascos.
“For families with loved ones
dealing with mental illness, our stories are of a different nature. We are
hesitant to tell them for many reasons. Some are too painful, and we just don’t
want to remember them.
“Others are too personal for
ourselves or our family member. Then there is always the fear of stigma, or the
dangers of self-pity.
“But there is value in our stories,”
Catherine says. “They help others get a truthful picture of the realities of
mental health difficulties that can tear down stigma.
“They comfort and counsel other
families going through similar situations.
“And, if faith and prayer are running themes, then many of our stories tell of the goodness of God’s love, provision and protection.
“In Acts 1:8 Jesus tells His
disciples, ‘You will be my witnesses.’
Catherine asks: “How have we seen
God at work in our lives as we care for our loved one? Have we watched Him,
like we saw the pilot in Africa, take an impossible situation and orchestrate a
number of configurations for adjustments that lead to a brilliant solution? How
have we witnessed His care, presence and power?
“Your stories . . . may give other
families hope and direction,” says Catherine. “Opening up . . . may garner
much-needed prayer. Being willing to talk about the realities of life in the
midst of mental illness is a first step in becoming an advocate for new and
better health care and legislation.
“As believers, we have been given
the privilege and responsibility of being stewards of our stories. Let’s be
aware of opportunities God gives us to tell of His goodness in the land of the living
(Psalm 27:13) and to declare His steadfast love in the morning and His
faithfulness by night (Psalm 92:2).”
Catherine P. Downing’s book, Sparks of Redemptive Grace, provides 14 brief chapters sharing one family’s challenges
with mental illness. Each chapter overflows with insight, hope, Scriptures and
prayers. It’s for sale as an e-book or in paperback. Order copies for your
pastor, church library, friend, family, and mental health providers.
Click here to read what others say
about Sparks of Redemptive Grace.
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