I’ve struggled with depression since my late teens. At 19, I tried to kill myself by ingesting a handful of pills. When that happened, a woman who I had never seen before and haven’t seen since found me and got me help. At the time, I hated her for it, but now I thank God for her. Since then, I met my wife, who has been pivotal in helping me know that I am not alone. Being in a small group has also impacted my life greatly. It’s a group of guys with whom I can share whatever is hurting me and whatever is going great for me.
I think of my struggles with emotions similarly to the way Paul prayed for God to remove the thorn in his side but understands that it’s left there to show God’s strength in our weakness. I can hear and support the members of my community better now because of my past.
God has shown up for me not necessarily with huge miracles but in people. Whenever I’m lacking, there’s always someone who has something for me; and whenever I feel worthless, there’s always someone who needs something from me. I’ve found refreshment in knowing that I’m not alone – we’re all not alone – we’re with one another, and even though we all might be a little different, we’re all together. -Cameron S.