9/11
This is a post I wrote on September 11th, but haven't published until now.
What a scary day,
Pain and loss and suffering;
Always remember.
I feel overwhelmed at the thought of writing on the anniversary of this infamous day. However, I feel I must give tribute to the tragedy which occurred on September 11, 2001. As this is a blog about depression, I'd like to address the events of 9/11 in a way that is true to its namesake: Finding optimism in depression. Therefore I've decided that this post won't necessarily be for those with a chemical imbalance or those who have been diagnosed with depression, but rather for all of us who have ever felt depressed in any moment. It is entirely possible that every single person who saw, heard, or read about the events of 9/11 experienced depression in a personal, real, and scary way. I pray that my many weaknesses will not keep any who read this post from finding comfort, faith, and hope.
Isaiah 41:10 reads:
'Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.'
This scripture influenced a verse in the hymn 'How Firm a Foundation', of which I shared in a previous post. Fear is the influence of the adversary, and isn't of God. Why should we fear knowing the God of the Earth and the Heavens is with us? That is a promise of God that He will help us. I've learned in my life that God, as Heavenly Father, is in actuality a parent; the divine father of my spirit. And as such I have recognized that He teaches me as would my incredible earthly parents. I always expect Him to be there and take away my problems. That He would drive away the thing that is causing me to fear. But that isn't His promise - His promise is that He is with us amidst that which is causing me to fear: the weight of financial discouragement, mental or physical illnesses, school, work, loss, heartache, pain - all of these things. This is so that we learn and gain strength. What is the benefit of having the Almighty God at our side? What is there to gain in recognizing His strength and turning to Him in times of difficulty?
I was asked to share my favorite scripture by someone I truly appreciate and respect. This scripture has changed my life as it has taught me to trust in God and in His plan. I have grown to love Him deeper as I face hardships, and I have learned that with every tear shed, with every moment of doubt or fear, is compensated by the very same God of the scriptures, the God of today. I am so blessed and loved, and I owe much of this knowledge to this scripture, as well as all scriptures in general.
Alma 26:12:
'Yea, I know that I am nothing; as to my strength I am weak; therefore I will not boast of myself, but I will boast of my God, for in his strength I can do all things; yea, behold, many mighty miracles we have wrought in this land, for which we will praise his name forever.'
As I read this again I am humbled to know that my strength is God's strength. That as I turn to Him I am filled with His love, His peace, and His strength. The more I recognize how widespread depression and anxiety is, the more I pray that this message will be heard: That you aren't alone. That we are never alone. That we can do all things in Him who gave us this life and always hears our cries. There is so much joy and love in this life to be experienced, and it is available to all who truly seek it. I recognize this joy when I'm with my family, my friends, loved ones. When I feel the spirit of God comfort me, testify to me of eternal truths, and fill me with hope for the future. In knowing that the best is desired for me, and of me. To know of my potential and especially to know of the potential of all those around me as I strive to serve them.
May God be with us in all our endeavors. Please remember that it is possible to have optimism in depression.
