I often find myself reflecting back in time, thinking aout the journey I've been on, I often recall the time, maybe 35 years ago when I felt trappd. I felt as though I was trapped in a hole, going nowhere, and I couldn't see a way out. The way out always seemed to be out of reach. It was an extremely difficult time in my life, immediately following a failed marriage. I had just begun preparing for the Pastorate when I learned that my Wife was having an affair. It was a devastating time for me. In a matter of a few seconds, my entire life was turned upside down. I not only felt as though I failed as a person, and a Husband, but I also felt as though I failed God. That event cast me into a state of anger, and I allowed my feelings and behaviors to drag me into a deep hole of despair. No matter how hard I tried, I could not get myself out of that dark hole. Life had become hopeless. I truly did not anticipate surviving that ordeal. Well, as you know, I did survive, and as bad as that experience was, God used that period of time to show me that He was able to take any situation and turn it into something good. I truly believe that God originally called me to serve Him, and that was my heart's desire. When that all failed, my entire world crumbled. God, in His wisdom and love, remained with me, and He brought me to the place where I was able to see a much bigger picture. I came to realize in my heart that there were so many other ways to serve Him. I had to find a way to reach up and open that door that would allow me to come back into the real world. I had to take the initiative. Once I was able to put all that anger and self destructive behavior aside, God began to open doors. As I continued to move forward I found Him to be my faithful guide. I say all this because I truly believe there are many people out there struggling to find a way out of their own despair, and I can say from my own personal experience, there is hope. No matter how hopeless a situation may appear to be, don't give up. There is a way out. It may be a long journey, but it will be a journey well worth the while. I am currently where I need to be, and I know I am serving Him. I am also grateful that some 31 years ago, I found a soulmate that I truly believe was chosen specifically for me.
Well written and so touching. What you have written is the truth. God is with us at all times good and bad. We need to learn and grow from all of our experiences. I can feel what you have gone through. I have had a dark past as well but am so happy to have a very deep relationship with Our Lord now. Blessings to you for sharing this story.
Fantastic photo! Thank you for sharing your story, I, too, come from somewhere I did not think I would make it out of. I believe everything happens for a reason and He knows what that is.
1st. The photo is haunting and memorizing. It's that door in the fog one reaches for in a dream and at the same time it's the door that hides horrors that you shout at leading heroine..Don't Open the Door!
2nd. Your testimony, naked truth bared to for all, sharing your pain yet at the same time sharing that there is ALWAYS hope and ALWAYS a way out..no matter how difficult or painful..we just have to chose it. I know you're helping others while helping yourself.
Thanks, Rick, for sharing such a deep personal story. The door is so reflective of the situation you were experiencing. I'm so glad that you have allowed God to walk with you through all this and to help you see the bigger picture. God is good and will continue to provide for you in ways you never expect or dreamed would happen. God bless you. :D
Amen! The door you write about is THE door, and the door in your photo is a perfect (really perfect) image for your thoughts. The angle with the doorknob looking so high up is so symbolic. And the way you framed it is reminiscent of clouds...and heaven. Having a moment of gratitude that my life path crossed yours here at 365. This is a fav for me.
A powerful story & great testament to you as a person Rick , you were able & ready to receive that help you needed at that dreadful time ! This theme must be especially evocative for you ! A great photo to illustrate your feelings too, thank you for your story !
You will probably never know the hearts you have touched today with your inspiring story. What courage you show in revealing your most intimate secrets and fears. I think you are serving God in a very special way.
So many of us have walked through a similar story Rick- feeling hopeless, the world crashing around us, dreams and desires out of reach. Such a lovely photo to express all those feelings and still it captures the sadness of those situations too. Thank you for your testimony. You are so right- there are many ways to serve Him and as I am in the middle of a search to find out where that will be next, these words helped to affirm that this season is "ok", even as unsettled as it may feel. Like you, I am grateful to have a Guide who walks alongside me. Keep on serving Rick- I can see God is using you in so many ways!
wonderful picture -- and it tells your story well! Thanks for sharing your difficult time and journey.........and your deep faith! That is a gift! And YOU are a gift to all the lives you touch!
I Guess each and every person all over the world have some falls and immensely hard times. Hopefully each will learn and succeeded to survive and see all the hardships as challenges, as you did.
Oh, Rick. Done that, been there. First marriage failed for the same reason (husband and a friend of mine) I was crushed and thought I would never get through it. But you do because you have to. The photo is very ominous and definitely fits your post. Glad things worked out for the best in the end.
What a touching testimenial, Rick. You're such an assured writer and I'm always drawn to read everything you post. I hope your words touch hearts that need to hear what you have to say. We never really know who's listening, do we?
Well, Rick, your words touched me deeply. I can relate to your narrative as being in that dim place you once found yourself to be in. I think most of us have experienced something that has set us back, and at the time not dealt with it, but felt that terrible feeling of crumbling. We all have to climb out of these holes at some point, I know I have had to in the past. I thank you for sharing your transition back into the light.
Dear Rick, I knew you were a man of God, not of the cloth but in the way you write, care, share and I Praise God for leading me to be able to share in your life. I know God has already blessed you, your marriage your family and your work, but I add my Prayer that God with continue to Bless you abundantly. I loved this photo and the story that you shared and it is so true you just do not knoe how many lives you touch with each written Testimony of God's faithfulness, and His Love, and you brought a tear to my eyes when I read this one today.
I do not know how the people without belief or Faith cope with the problems, stress and anxieties of the world today. I am so proud to be counted as a Believer in God.
First off...great perspective of this door. I love this shot. Secondly...I appreciate your honest and feel that many can relate to your words. Words written from the heart are my favorite !
2nd. Your testimony, naked truth bared to for all, sharing your pain yet at the same time sharing that there is ALWAYS hope and ALWAYS a way out..no matter how difficult or painful..we just have to chose it. I know you're helping others while helping yourself.
A beautiful perspective and encouragement for those in despair.
I do not know how the people without belief or Faith cope with the problems, stress and anxieties of the world today. I am so proud to be counted as a Believer in God.