d&m thoughts

David Weatherford once said:

"We enjoy warmth because we have been cold.
We appreciate light because we have been in darkness.
By the same token, we can experience joy because we have known sadness."

Reflecting on the past week I must say I heartily agree with this statement. I believe that those who experience true joy have at one point in their lives also experienced real grief, loneliness, pain, misery and sorrow. But I also believe that the key to overcoming such emotions; the key to emerging from such darkness lies in sharing it with others; no matter how painful it might be.

Speaking from personal experience, I can testify that silent tears only compound one's sorrow, for after they've been shed, there is no one there to wipe them away. But tears shared by the bond of friendship; nay the bond of fellowship if not change the problem, can change one's perspective.

One's perspective on life can really affect our emotional wellbeing; and the transformation from a negative to a positive perspective is one not often experienced; but always remembered. When I'm feeling down- everything just seems to be against me; I feel as though I'm carrying a heavy burden with me all day long. But with a few encouraging words- I feel much lighter; it's like the burden just dissolves into nothing; and suddenly everything is for me. I can't really describe what it feels like; only liken it to being trapped in the darkness... and then suddenly let free into the light.

I learnt a couple of important lessons in the past week:

Firstly, that as emotional beings, we can't deny our emotions even if we want to. Our emotions are a part of us just as much as our rational thinking and we need to learn how to properly express them.

Secondly, suffering just for the sake of it is almost unbearable. But suffering for a cause; then that is worth suffering for. Sometimes we need our eyes opened as to why we are suffering. Often we are simply too blinded by the pain.

Thirdly, it is so hard to be a strong Christian by yourself. Now I understand better why church is so important for Christians. It is very hard to encourage yourself when you're feeling down. To have a strong network of loving Christian brothers and sisters is the one of the greatest blessings one could be given. God knows we can't make it on our own. That is why He gives us the church so that we may be edified and encouraged, spurred on towards love and good deeds.

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oh and a very happy 19th birthday to clare!!