Dude, I Shop Like a Dude!

Clothes. Shoes. Jewelry. Make-up. 

     Women can never have enough of these things. They cannot wait until they have a moment to shop the latest styles from their favorite department store. Pawing through racks at Goodwill is exhilarating. Oh, and let’s not forget the euphoria that falls around them when they find those wonderful, impractical, painful shoes that they will never wear more than once a year, but simply must have.

Into the Valley and Back

     Two weeks ago, I shared a story of God's love and faithfulness overcoming my depression and turmoil. The response I received was overwhelming. In just a few days, I had over 300 views from ten different countries.

To put it in perspective, I only had 148 Facebook friends from three or four countries.

     I have received messages from several people telling me that they have similar stories. Some are people I've just met, others people I've known for years. My point here would be, if you are going through something similar, don't suffer in silence. It's hard to be honest about what you are going through, but you aren't the only one.

   

My Silent Pain

     If you have known me for long at all, than you know that I'm a pretty private person. Sure, I'll hang out, make jokes, laugh, and occasionally, have something serious to say. But I don't often let people know the real me--the emotions and feelings that are going through my head. It's hard for me to be transparent with people, but, in light of recent events, I feel the need to share a very personal story.
     Some details will be vague, but please understand that this is hard. In spite of that, I hope that my story will either help someone who reads it, or enable you to help someone else.

Will the Real Me Please Stand?

"I need to take some time to find myself."

"I don't know who I am."

"I need to find out who I am, myself, before thinking about involving myself in anything."

"Who is anyone, really?"

"What's really important is who I am on the inside."

"I just need to follow my heart."

     Sound familiar? I'm sure we've all heard some version of the above at one time or another. Thinking about it, I wonder, who is the real me? Upon reflection, I don't think that is the right question. A question like that would do nothing but confuse.