Going down memory lane, I began my venture in a foreign country alone, transferring four pieces of luggage and carrying a bag full of dreams and hopes.
Yet, it was definitely not an easy transition. I had nights when I wished I could go back home and stop time from moving, dreading that another day would top up the stress I was feeling.
Why do other people manage their problems better than I do? This statement was what I often asked myself when I started working away from home.
“It will never stop, you know, being disappointed. . . It is actually how you react to these situations that determine your personal outcome…”
– quoted from a friend
I would think that stress acted like a parasite that feeds from a person’s (host) worries. The more I worried, the more I felt weak and disheartened; to the point that I felt depressed.
Honestly, I felt like I was trying to keep afloat in the midst of my problems; but finding that I was nearly drowning from pretending to be ok.
Years went by and I met people who have shared their life experiences- family loss, undergoing difficult family situations, and those who have serious medical conditions. They were the same people who asked how I was and encouraged me to see the good in the discouragements I have faced.
I felt God using these life stories to remind me to pause for a moment and reflect; to see the things in my life, be grateful and to take life one day at a time.
I woke up today and decided to walk along the beach which was about 10 minutes from where I was staying. I did not expect to witness the sun rising as I reached the shore, and in its majestic display, I remembered again:
My friends and family has been with me through my dire times. Despite being 2,745 miles away, we manage to speak to each other with the aid of social media.
Importantly, the Lord has never failed showing his love and grace even with my shortcomings. Definitely, I am so grateful that I could always call on Him wherever I was 24/7.
To whoever is reading this post who may be going through a difficult season, I pray for strength and wisdom for you my friend.
Here’s a great song that encouraged me today:
‘Cause when life gets broken, when you’re in despair. He’ll carry your burden when it’s too much to bear. It’s down in the valley where He’ll give you strength. And there is nothing you have lost that He can’t replace. He’ll help you start all over again. When life gets broken . . .
Make A Person Smile 