By Nancy Virden (c)2025

Ignorance is not stupidity; it is simply a lack of knowledge. The five-year-old whom I homeschool is ignorant of reading the time using an analog clock. He is learning what the hands and numbers mean. It brings joy and laughter as he figures it out. Gaining knowledge grows his confidence, and what was once obscure and meaningless is now fascinating.

True stories work the same way. We gain knowledge and fascination from eyewitness accounts, testimonies, and memoirs. Sometimes they shake us, inspire us, make us nervous, or fill our minds with hope.

True stories can bring relief. We often see ourselves as alone, suffering unwanted and negative thoughts that no one who is “normal” suffers. Hearing the stories of other people can bring that sense of self into focus as we learn that everyone is basically the same. Grief and Loss 

True stories will challenge a judging attitude. Sometimes we protect ourselves from pain by taking up an attitude of superiority. We assume the right to judge others based on what we think we know. Awareness of the deeper stories of others can inform us of what is actually true. Acceptance replaces stigma and stereotype. Alcoholism 

True stories will humble us. The experiences of others can grow our gratitude, patience, and understanding. Not only do we see the lessons they learned, but we see ourselves. Rebuilt On Ruins

True stories will inspire us. Most of us strive to upgrade our skills at our jobs, hobbies, and relationships. One way to successfully become a better person on the inside is to learn to give and serve on the outside. Fatherhood 

True stories can protect us. We have heard the adage, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” Historical and biblical true stories can prevent the repetition of failed choices. If we take them in, we will not look foolish when it matters. We can make wiser choices because of the life lessons from others. Recovering Enabler

True stories show us our redemption. Hearing the experiences of other people shows us the frailty of humankind. Our need for a Savior becomes obvious as we compare our helplessness. Discover the answer that has set people free. Sexual Addiction 

More true stories continue to be collected at True Stories, the page of hope, renewal, and fulfilled life. Which one is your favorite?

-COMMENTS WELCOME

Today’s Helpful Word

1 John 1:2-4

This one who is life itself was revealed to us, and we have seen him. And now we testify and proclaim to you that he is the one who is eternal life. He was with the Father, and then he was revealed to us. 

We proclaim to you what we ourselves have actually seen and heard so that you may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. We are writing these things so that you may fully share our joy.

If you are feeling suicidal or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S., call 988, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. 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. This website is not intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.

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