As I sat in my car this morning listening to Natalie Grant’s song, “Burn Bright” my eyes started stinging as the tears came. I’m not sad. I love Wednesdays!
I’ve had this song playing in the background many times, but for some reason this time, the words grabbed my attention enough to keep me sitting in my car in the driveway. Images of my beautiful friends who have walked through the darkness and come out on the other side, came flooding to mind.
People like Emily Wierenga who survived a vicious eating disorder that almost took her life. She now spends her life telling others her story through art, words and actions in hopes of shining light in the darkness.
Jennifer Riley who is by far the most creative person I know. She spends everyday creating beauty for other people. She doesn’t even know how incredible she really is.
Mollymorgan who chose life and has been recovering from anorexia for 3 years. Does she have any idea how proud I am of her?
Julie Taylor who has overcome a drug addiction thought only to be defeated in death.
This post is for you.
It’s for those still in the dark.
For the children who don’t have a choice.
It’s for the ones who are at the jumping off place. Numb and afraid that you will never feel anything again.
This is for all of you who want to scream, but don’t have a voice.
I want you to know that whether your monster is addiction, an eating disorder, discrimination because of your sexual preference or the color of your skin, depression, anxiety, abuse…
I love you. Your Creator, God, loves you. He knows your name.
And you were made to shine.
Press play to listen to “Burn Bright”
Feel free to download a pdf version of the picture and quote in this post.
Baby Burn Bright pdf
If you or someone you love is struggling with an eating disorder, please, please, get help. It is serious and it wants to take your life. You can start by visiting the National Eating Disorders Association.
If you are, like I was, broken & without hope, I beg you to reach out to someone at one of the resources listed below. Click on the name and it will take you directly to the website. As long as you are breathing, there is still hope.
People of the Second Chance
Central Christian Church: Las Vegas
To Write Love on Her Arms
Jennifer does an awesome job with her flowers!!
I agree!
She’s absolutely incredible!
I wish there was a better word, but there isn’t.
It’s here birthday week. I wish I could make her feel as fantastic as she makes everyone else feel!
I’m going to try 🙂
You’re SUCH an encouragement to me dear Joy. Thank you for this. Love you.
Love you, friend!
Keep shining 🙂