Compassionate Love: Displaying compassion for those who struggle with mental illness   (c) 2018  Nancy Virden, Always The Fight Ministries

A boy of about 10 years worked hard to raise enough money to own a bicycle.  He mowed lawns, ran errands, washed cars, and saved every penny. Months later, he sat atop his new 20″ freestyle BMX , ready for his first ride.  His heart filled with joy,  his feet could barely keep up with the peddles as he sailed downhill on a city side street.

Suddenly, a group of teenagers surrounded him. Searing pain consumed his face; blood ran from his nose. They left him on the cement with a broken jaw, and no bike.

The boy stood up, saw a police car, and ran toward it.  Between sobs and bloodied teeth he tried to tell the officers what had happened. He was scolded, “Go home and stay out of trouble.” They drove away having collected no information about the bike or the teenage  assailants and thieves.

Helpless isn’t all …

That true story hurts my heart every time it comes to mind. It sad to think of the grave disappointment, anger, and confusion that must have enveloped that boy. Unfortunately,  in a world where people often hurt others, he is not alone in that sense of helplessness. 

When life isn’t fair and injustice seems to have the upper hand, an anchor for the soul is Jesus. I know not everyone who reads my blogs is “religious” per se, yet this is my experience. My story is not complete without telling of the One who has been my strength and inspiration through every broken heart. 

…There’s real hope

Last week, a stranger felt it was somehow acceptable to interject herself into a private and sensitive part of my life. Twice I felt invaded as she justified being the one to inform me of a personal family matter.  This triggered days of PTSD-driven anxiety (due to the issue), tension, and fatigue. No one can make anyone else feel a certain way, however her lack of compassion was extraordinary.  

I feel better today because my anchor reminded me nothing is bigger than he is. He dwarfs fear and exists beyond the reaches of human error.  When people hurt me, in him I trust. In him a sense of helplessness is replaced with security. His embrace never fails.

You see, the anchor holds in every kind of storm.