By Nancy Virden (c)2025
My son is wise. I’ve read a definition of wisdom that says, “It is knowledge to recognize a tomato is a fruit. It is wisdom to know not to add it to a fruit salad.” My son is fruit-salad-wise.
We talked on the phone for 5 hours recently. He knows stuff. We talked about world history, politics, money, family, religion, and mental health. After he asked how I am doing, I was honest and mentioned what I wrote last week. He came up with a viable solution to my dropping sense of purpose. Physical issues are helping me to stay isolated, so he promised to schedule a delayed doctor’s appointment if I arrange an appointment with the specialist I’ve been postponing. His suggestion was because he loves me. I am motivated to do what it takes for him to see his doctor. Win/win.
That is wisdom because he understands what will motivate me. Expressions of actionable care (not sympathy) speak to my heart louder than anything else. Some of my biggest hurts are the result of thinking people were caring, only to find out later that they had nefarious ulterior motives.
This doctor’s appointment is the first step toward getting me out of my shell. It will not be quick. Experience with this sort of thing has taught me that agoraphobia is around the corner if I continue thinking the way I have been. My son said he sees darkness in his future, too, if he does not make a change.
Hurray for answers to prayer for my son! Hurray to God who answers my needs, too, while He leads those I love. This trek will not be easy – it never is. However, I know I can come out of this once more and lead a more fulfilling life.
-COMMENTS WELCOME
Today’s Helpful Word
“Ah, Sovereign Lord, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you.”
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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