Lessons From The Past

Years ago when J.C. committed suicide, I thought about my inability to convey the greatness of having a relationship with my Creator. I failed J.C. in more than one way. When I wrote about the episode in my debut novel, “Glimpses of Grace - You are His Favorite” I recalled my disappointment in my inability to explain how vital that relationship is. Yesterday, I was given another opportunity.

D.C. returned my call and he’s been having some challenges with his beliefs and his desire to continue the journey we call life. He made a decision to find a permanent solution for a temporary problem about a month ago. He attempted suicide. I’m grateful he failed.

We spoke for well over two hours and I’m not entirely sure if I was able to convey just how vital a relationship with the Creator is. I did my best. I shared my experience. I spoke to him about my attempts, about the medications, the stopping of taking the medications, the hospitalizations, the embarrassment and shame and guilt. We covered all those things in depth. As our call was winding down, I was still uncertain, as I am now, if my message was received. As my former Spiritual Advisor and Mentor would often say, “More will be revealed.”

Today, Wednesday, March 8, 2023, I am grateful that:

D.C. and I got a chance to talk. It’s a dark place, living with the intense, unyielding, and seemingly never ending siege of depression. That dark place is void of life, yet the Creator can illuminate it from afar sending love and serenity beyond all comprehension.

I get the chance to make a difference. It’s not something I can say often as poignantly as yesterday, but it happens. I think I get a bit too focused on the daily trials of life and forget that what is truly important is people. The relationships with family and friends. Making a positive impact and walking in High favor. Those things are the reason for being and living.

I get the chance to work today. It’s shaping up to be a lack luster week after a great start on Monday. In two weeks, I probably won’t remember the reason for a smaller than normal paycheck, but when I reflect, I’ll recall my conversations with D.C. and no monetary amount can purchase comfort, caring, and convey empathy.

How do you show others they are important to you?

What do you say? What do you do? How often do you do those things?

Could you do more?

Be Great. Be Grateful!!!