I want to share a personal story from last week that illustrates how healing from pain is always possible, and how we often find strength in unexpected ways.
One of the greatest realizations when faced with a difficult situation is discovering your own resilience. Often, you are stronger and more capable of overcoming challenges than you initially believe.
A Personal Story of Healing
Last week, I found myself at the local courthouse for jury duty. This was an event I had been dreading for months. Courthouses fill me with dread due to their association with my past trauma of rape. This particular courthouse was directly tied to my case, serving as a stark reminder. Much like some other locations, courthouses can sometimes trigger deep-seated fears and anxieties. Thankfully, there is little reason for me to go in them often (save for jury duty).
As I waited in the courthouse, I was suddenly struck by a profound sense of familiarity in the room. Long-buried memories began to resurface. It dawned on me that I was sitting in the very room where I had met with the victim advocate to discuss my case years ago. The terror I felt then came rushing back. I vividly remembered the fear I experienced as an 18-year-old facing the prospect of confronting my rapist in court.
However, as I sat in that room last week, I realized how much I had been transformed by God. Though the memories were painful, I felt an unexpected peace. My presence in that courthouse was a testament to God’s grace and His constant presence on my healing journey. The frightened girl who once sat there had grown into a strong, resilient woman who found hope and purpose through faith.
I had prayed fervently that my jury duty would be cancelled, yet sitting there I came to understand there was a purpose in being there. Returning to that place allowed me to experience another layer of healing that I didn’t know I needed. Sometimes revisiting old wounds reminds us of just how far we have come. Thank you, Jesus! And in that moment, I couldn’t help but pray for the other souls who, like me, have been affected by that place.
Hold Onto Hope
Friend, the message I want to share with you is that there is always hope. No matter how deep the pain or how impossible the challenge may seem, by the grace of God, you are stronger than you realize, and healing is possible. Even in the darkest moments, there is a path forward, illuminated by faith and the unwavering support and prayers of the Body of Christ.
