THE BIBLE-TEACHING MINISTRY OF CHARLES R. SWINDOLL
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How many of you feel comfortable talking about depression? Better yet, do you share your convictions when someone else is vulnerable about being depressed? Let me start off by stating that depression can be a severe struggle for parents raising special-needs children. Depression can be indescribable, grievous, and debilitating. It’s not easy to talk about! I know because I’ve struggled with depression for years. I have questioned whether life is worth living and have doubted all of life’s meaning in the darkness. If you are suffering, my heart breaks for you. I pray that God provides His mercy to you in abundance, particularly throughout this time of year. During the holidays, as many special-needs families encounter increased struggles, depression becomes an even greater possibility. Even “normal” things, like buying presents and going to events — the regular unraveling of schedules — can be very discouraging throughout the season. When my son Jon was 6, his Christmas list included: a washing machine, fans of all shapes and sizes, a vacuum cleaner, and a waterfall in his room. Such are the highlights of holidays! It’s humorous to me now, but it wasn’t when he was 6 and I was longing to give him presents like I the ones imagined other parents giving their children. More than that, my wish to give him what no human ever could was only accentuated. So, I know what a struggle depression can be, especially around the holidays. I know and I want this season to be a great one for you. Here are some things I’ve done that have positively affected my attitude and perspective. I encourage you to choose a few of these ideas to help you enjoy a delightful holiday season this year.
Here are some ideas for how to put together your book:
I pray these ideas will help guard your heart against depression this year and help you experience the peace and presence of Immanuel, God with us, in this and every season.
About the Author: Colleen Swindoll-Thompson Colleen Swindoll-Thompson