By Nancy Virden (c)2024

Due to health and timing, it has been almost a year since taking any opportunity to teach classes in my church. Today I am grateful for renewed energy- enough to resume leading a Living Grace for Mental Health class, and beginning to assist in a children’s program. The first is a well-oiled plan it will be easy to continue. The latter is a chance to play and be a kid again. I am in my happy place because I get to gather the crafts supplies (do I hear shopping?) and maybe tell stories, a forte.

Three weeks ago it was not easy to see why my life matters. I KNOW it does, and have not been depressed. Nonetheless, creativity, purpose, and busyness keep me alive emotionally. Is this true of you?

If you fear you are wasting your life, consider volunteerism. Helping other people can put a spark in your step. If you decide one kind of work is not for you, there are thousands of non-profits just waiting for your call. You get to decide how often, where, and what you volunteer to do. I only encourage you to be dependable.

“Volunteerism is the voice of the people put into action. These actions shape and mold the present into a future of which we can all be proud.”

— Helen Dyer

“The unselfish effort to bring cheer to others will be the beginning of a happier life for ourselves.” 

— Helen Keller

-COMMENTS WELCOME

Today’s Helpful Word

Romans 12:1

And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.

If you are feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, or for a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.

If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room. In the EU call 112. (For other international emergency numbers, go here ). Hope and help are yours!

Always the Fight Ministries (ATFM) has been displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse since 2012. Nancy is the founder and voice of ATFM and openly shares her emotional resurrection from despair. NOTE: Nancy is not a doctor or a mental health professional, and speaks only from personal experience and observations. In no way is this website intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.

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