Yes, to number one. The main result is fear of trusting anyone - at all...even God. No one feels safe. So, I tend to pull in...especially when I'm really hurting. I don't want anyone else to be able to abuse or harm me in any way.
You are not alone here. I suspect that for most of us, the biggest struggle is learning to love ourselves as we are. And shed the bullshit and lies of the “ideal.” (Hint: there is no ideal.)
You know what I love so much about your work? You don’t automatically assume there is sin behind the symptoms. You so beautifully acknowledge that sometimes it’s just “life.” Thank you for doing that!!
Ann, thanks so much for your kind words! I mostly steer away from the s-word these days, because toxic theology has so twisted that concept to keep countless people imprisoned in fear. And most of the time, it isn't sin - it's pain. People are hurting so bad. And sometimes that pain causes them to do things to hurt themselves or others. But they aren't bad. They're just brokenhearted. <3
Yes, to number one. The main result is fear of trusting anyone - at all...even God. No one feels safe. So, I tend to pull in...especially when I'm really hurting. I don't want anyone else to be able to abuse or harm me in any way.
Tough stuff here. The first thing that came to my mind: Devo #2: How to Love Those with Mental Illness ( "including myself" ).
You are not alone here. I suspect that for most of us, the biggest struggle is learning to love ourselves as we are. And shed the bullshit and lies of the “ideal.” (Hint: there is no ideal.)
You know what I love so much about your work? You don’t automatically assume there is sin behind the symptoms. You so beautifully acknowledge that sometimes it’s just “life.” Thank you for doing that!!
Ann, thanks so much for your kind words! I mostly steer away from the s-word these days, because toxic theology has so twisted that concept to keep countless people imprisoned in fear. And most of the time, it isn't sin - it's pain. People are hurting so bad. And sometimes that pain causes them to do things to hurt themselves or others. But they aren't bad. They're just brokenhearted. <3
Thanks Steve. Feeling more hopeful and grounded today.
I’m so glad to hear that. But even on the days when you feel less hopeful and grounded, you are still enough. Much love to you, friend.