Mental Health America: The Story of Our Symbol - The Mental Health Bell

Mental Health America: The Story of Our Symbol - The Mental Health Bell

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The story of the Mental Health Bell is one well worth reading. It's also a reminder. A reminder that those of us who are fortunate not to suffer with severe mental health problems should be the first to help those with illnessess that can suck the life out of a person. Mental health allows us to enjoy life. Mental illness and the stigma of mental illness continue to keep some people locked away in a dark place.

I challenge you to make an effort to reach out and do something special for someone who suffers from these devastating illnesses (depression, bipolar, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc.)in your church, your neighborhood, or your state. Make a difference this December as we celebrate the birth of our Savior. Be a light.

Feel free to leave your ideas on what we can all do to make a difference. I think I'll give the gift of music and take that special person out to eat.

THANKSGIVING BLESSINGS

I count my blessings in your provision
and I praise your holy name.
I’m blessed by sun and moon,
friends, and family and a husband who cares
to share his life with me.

I love my books and pens and your indulgence
while I create my stories.
I hear your laughter when I write my comedy,
and your pleasure when I read my words to you.
I feel your encouragement and your praise for a job well done.

I see the changes over the years in a daughter I thought lost,
yet you’ve made her strong enough to withstand the wind.
You’ve rescued her and set her on her feet,
a second chance to play the game of life.

You’ve made my other daughter joyful
with a passion to seek your face.
She strives every day to please you and
shares her heart with those in need.

O God you are my soul keeper, my protector
in the storm.
You forgive and forget and lead me by the hand,
to talk quietly of dreams to come.

Just Enough Light

I needed this reminder today of a book review I did about a month ago over at
http://www.inkwellinspirations.blogspot.com/ If you've been struggling lately you might want to read this and then go see my Poetry Devotional for today over at the inkwell. PEACE.

If you are experiencing a difficult time in your life, or you know someone who is, this is a great book to use while you work your way through painful situations. I don’t say that casually. I’m employed as a full-time counselor for nursing students and have a master’s degree in social work, and I believe this book is a valuable tool for anyone.

Stormie O’Martian discusses how we learn to walk with our heavenly father. This hasn’t always been easy for me because I didn’t grow up having a father in the house, so it was hard to learn to trust God when my earthly father had abandoned me. Perhaps some of you have faced the same experience. Once in awhile I still need a reminder that God is there, and providing just enough light so I don’t get overwhelmed.

I love the image of just enough light because it helps me focus on what I can do today and encourages me not to look too far ahead. It reminds me of the scripture: Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.Matthew 6:33-34.

The Prayer Light in each chapter is a prayer related to the chapter. For instance, on page 36 following the chapter on, Refusing to be Afraid of the Dark, the prayer begins with “Lord thank you that because I walk with you I don’t have to fear the dark.”

Footlights provide a list of several scriptures that shine light on the chapter subject, i.e., Isaiah 50:10.

Stormie offers a study guide at the end of each chapter which is very helpful for further study and insight.

The Bottom Line: If you’re walking in a dark place, a little light will help you find your way.