I held back tears and became vulnerable while the silence filled the room. It was difficult, even though I've shared my testimony on several occasions because I feared that I would be judged and would lose the group's approval.
No such thing happened, of course. In fact, last weekend at a retreat, one of the girls shared that some of the things I had said had stayed with her for two weeks. As she cried, I cried and felt the warmth of value surround me. See, I have a fear of not being heard, not being noticed and not being valued for who I truly am. Hearing that my story impacts people is the greatest gift anyone could ever give me because it means my pain is worth it. I am making a difference because of where I have been. I am not defined by my past, but it is a part of me, shaping me, making me stronger.
"You're either in a storm, going into one or coming out of one. Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...it's about learning to dance in the rain."
Keep persevering. Your day's just begun.
5 comments:
Knowing that God has used you to bless another life is such an amazing feeling. And you're right, it gives a sense of purpose to the storms we have weathered, even to the one you might be in at the moment! Keep Dancing Laura!!
Love this Laura<3 I feel the same way; hearing someone say your testimony touched them makes all the pain worth it. I hope one day, I can hear your story. Your love for God is so evident and I look forward to hearing more from you throughout the year :) you're awesome!!!
God never wastes a hurt, my friend! The more we share our stories, the more we realize we are not alone in our experiences and hurts. And that sharing ourselves is part of the healing process. Keep dancing in the rain and to God be the glory!!!!
Thank you for the inspiring and encouraging words! It means a lot to me to have your wonderful support. Many Blessings!
Keep on telling your story, Laura, God is blessing you and others when you open up the hurt and become transparant..most of us have experienced pain but most are afraid to share...when we share we unwrap the layers of denial and we become more open to Gods healing and filling....you are a beautiful, wonderful young woman.
Jean Campbell
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