Tag: Mental Health Support

Circle of Hope Counseling Services, End the Stigma, Suicide Awareness and Prevention

Creating a Safety Plan Can Save a Life

barefootfaithjourney

Creating a Safety Plan Can Save a Life

crisis intervention plan

When a mental health crisis hits, it can feel like the ground drops out from under you. Thinking clearly becomes almost impossible, and the very steps that could help you feel safe can seem out of reach. 

That’s why creating a safety plan before a crisis happens is so important. It’s like a lifeline you prepare in calm moments so it’s ready to grab when the storm comes.

What Is a Safety Plan?

A safety plan is a personalized, step-by-step guide you create in advance to help you navigate moments of intense distress or suicidal thoughts. It’s not just for people in immediate crisis. It’s for anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed, hopeless, or afraid they might harm themselves.

It can be written in a notebook, saved on your phone, or shared with a trusted friend. What matters most is that it’s accessible and specific to you.

Why It Matters

When emotions are high, logic takes a back seat. A safety plan takes the guesswork out of what to do next. It reminds you that you’ve already chosen life in your calmer moments and gives you the tools to hold onto it when it’s hardest.

A Simple Safety Plan Template

You can adapt this to fit your needs, but here’s a basic outline:

Warning Signs

  • Thoughts, feelings, or behaviors that signal I might be heading into crisis.
  • Example: Feeling hopeless, withdrawing from friends, trouble sleeping, increased anxiety.

Coping Strategies I Can Try on My Own

  • Activities or techniques to distract, comfort, or calm myself.
  • Example: Go for a walk, listen to worship music, journal, pray, watch a favorite show.

People and Places That Help Me Feel Safe

  • Friends, family, or locations where I can feel grounded.
  • Example: Call a friend, sit in my church, visit my sister’s house.

Who I Can Call for Help

  • Crisis lines, therapists, or trusted loved ones who can help me stay safe.
  • Example: Therapist: Circle of Hope Counseling Services (270.564.1966), National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988.

Making My Environment Safer

  • Steps to reduce access to means of self-harm.
  • Example: Give my medications to my spouse to hold, lock away firearms, avoid alcohol or drugs when feeling low.

One Reason to Keep Living

  • Something deeply personal to hold onto.
  • Example: My children, my faith, my future plans, knowing God isn’t finished with my story.

Faith and Safety Plans

Creating a safety plan doesn’t mean you lack faith. It means you are stewarding your life as the gift it is. Proverbs 27:12 says, “The prudent see danger and take refuge.”

Preparing a plan is taking refuge before the danger comes. It’s not doubting God’s care. It’s partnering with Him in caring for yourself.

Gentle Encouragement

You are worth protecting. Your life is worth preparing for. And the plan you make today could be the lifeline that keeps you here tomorrow.

If You Are Struggling: Call or text 988 in the U.S. or use Find a Helpline for help in your country. You are not alone.

Scripture to Carry: “The Lord is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Psalm 91:2

Related Posts

Micro-Moments of Peace 3-Minute Daily Resets

Circle of Hope Counseling Services, End the Stigma

Courage in EnCOURAGE

Brandi C

nothing is impossible when you put one foot in front of the other and take a step. (1)

The Power of Encouragement: A Call to Love and Lift Others

Did you ever notice the word courage in encourage? Encouraging someone takes little effort but can change a life. We may not always agree with what others do or believe, but at the end of the day, does their life truly harm us? Our role is not to judge but to love and show the unconditional love of Christ.

Choosing Encouragement Over Judgment

In a world divided by politics, religion, parenting styles, and personal choices, it’s easy to focus on differences. But we can choose love over division. Encouragement is a powerful force—one kind word, one thoughtful gesture, one moment of understanding can make a profound impact.

Too often, people feel isolated in their struggles. Some battle deep sadness, despair, and even suicidal thoughts, yet they mask it so well we never see their pain. A simple word of encouragement might be the very thing that reminds them they are not alone.

The Life-Saving Power of Kindness

We don’t always know what others are going through. A smile, a genuine “I see you,” or a heartfelt “You matter” can be a lifeline. Encouragement doesn’t require us to have all the answers—it requires us to be present, to listen, and to offer hope.

Christ’s love is not conditional. He loved without barriers, without prerequisites. We are called to do the same. Whether or not we agree with someone’s lifestyle or choices, we can still choose compassion. Love does not mean endorsement—it means recognizing the humanity in others and treating them with kindness.

Practical Ways to Encourage Others

  1. Offer a Kind Word – A small compliment or acknowledgment can make a difference.
  2. Listen Without Judgment – Sometimes, people just need to be heard.
  3. Show Up – Be present for someone, even in silence.
  4. Practice Empathy – Seek to understand rather than criticize.
  5. Be the Light – A little encouragement goes a long way.

Be the Reason Someone Keeps Going

Encouragement doesn’t just lift others—it transforms us, too. When we choose to uplift rather than tear down, we reflect the love of Christ and create a world where no one feels invisible.

So today, take a moment to encourage someone. You never know how much they might need it. A simple act of kindness could be the reason someone chooses to hold on for one more day.

💛 If you’re navigating life’s hard places and need a safe space to heal, grow, or just breathe—Circle of Hope Counseling Services is here for you.

We offer trauma-informed, faith-filled therapy for individuals, couples, and families.

📞 Reach out today to schedule your first session (KY residents only) or learn more: Circle of Hope Counseling Services.

You don’t have to walk this journey alone. Hope starts here.

Related Posts

Facing Fear God is Bigger

Circle of Hope Counseling Services, End the Stigma

Not All Scars Can Be Seen

Brandi C

circle of hope counseling services (2)

Not All Scars Can Be Seen

Not All Scars Can Be Seen

Scars tell stories. Some are visible, etched into our skin as reminders of battles fought and wounds healed. Others, though, remain hidden as they carve deep into our hearts and minds, shaping us in ways the world cannot see but are just as real.

The Weight of Invisible Wounds

Emotional and psychological scars often go unnoticed. There’s no cast for a broken spirit, no stitches for a wounded heart. Trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression—these struggles don’t always show on the outside, but they shape us just the same.

The hardest part? Others may not understand. It’s easy to offer sympathy for a physical injury. However, invisible scars often come with judgment, doubt, or well-meaning but dismissive comments like “Just move on” or “It’s all in your head.” But pain doesn’t have to be visible to be valid.

Healing Takes Time

Just like physical wounds, emotional scars need time to heal. Healing doesn’t follow a straight path; instead, it moves through ups and downs. Some days, you feel strong, and on other days, the past creeps back in. That’s okay. True healing isn’t about forgetting what hurt you—it’s about learning to live beyond the pain and finding ways to move forward.

How to Care for the Unseen Wounds

✔ Acknowledge Your Pain – Your feelings are real and deserve space. Recognizing and accepting them is the first step toward healing. ✔ Speak Your Truth – Whether through therapy, journaling, or talking to a trusted friend, expressing your emotions can be powerful and cathartic. ✔ Set Boundaries – Protect your peace. It’s okay to walk away from toxic environments and relationships that no longer serve you. ✔ Practice Self-Compassion – You are not your trauma. Therefore, be gentle with yourself and give yourself the grace to heal. ✔ Seek Support – You don’t have to carry this alone. There is strength in reaching out, and there are people who want to help.

You Are Not Alone

If you carry invisible scars, know this: You are seen. You are valued. Your pain matters. Healing is possible, and you are worthy of it.

Scars, visible or not, are proof of survival. And you? You are still here. You are still fighting and you are still standing. That is strength, resilience, and that is something to be proud of.

💛 If you’re navigating life’s hard places and need a safe space to heal, grow, or just breathe—Circle of Hope Counseling Services is here for you.

We offer trauma-informed, faith-filled therapy for individuals, couples, and families.

📞 Reach out today to schedule your first session (KY residents only) or learn more: Circle of Hope Counseling Services.

You don’t have to walk this journey alone. Hope starts here.

Related Posts

Stop Silent Start Talking

Circle of Hope Counseling Services, End the Stigma

How’s Your Mental Health Today

Brandi C

circle of hope counseling services (1)

How’s Your Mental Health Today?

Life moves fast. Responsibilities pile up, schedules fill, and before we know it, we’ve gone days—or even weeks—without checking in on ourselves. So, let’s pause for a moment: How’s your mental health today?

Take a Deep Breath and Check-In

When was the last time you truly checked in with yourself? Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, content, or maybe a little numb? Acknowledging where you’re at is the first step in taking care of yourself.

Signs You Might Need a Mental Health Reset

  • You feel emotionally drained, even after rest.
  • Small tasks feel overwhelming.
  • You’re more irritable or sensitive than usual.
  • You find yourself withdrawing from others.
  • Your thoughts are racing, or you feel disconnected.

If any of these resonate, it’s okay. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and sometimes, we need to hit the reset button.

Ways to Care for Your Mental Health Today

✔ Acknowledge Your Feelings – Give yourself permission to feel whatever is coming up without judgment. ✔ Take a Break – Even five minutes of deep breathing, stretching, or stepping outside can help. ✔ Stay Hydrated & Nourished – Your brain and body need fuel to function well. ✔ Reach Out – Whether it’s a friend, therapist, or support group, connection matters. ✔ Limit Negativity – Take a break from social media or the news if it feels heavy. ✔ Engage in Something Joyful – Listen to music, read, create, or do anything that lifts your spirit.

You Are Not Alone

No matter what today looks like for you, please know that you’re not alone. Your feelings are valid, and your struggles are seen. If your mental health feels like it’s weighing you down, reach out for help—whether to a loved one or a professional. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s necessary.

So, let’s check in—how’s your mental health today? And what’s one small thing you can do to take care of yourself right now?

💛 If you’re navigating life’s hard places and need a safe space to heal, grow, or just breathe—Circle of Hope Counseling Services is here for you.

We offer trauma-informed, faith-filled therapy for individuals, couples, and families.

📞 Reach out today to schedule your first session (KY residents only) or learn more: Circle of Hope Counseling Services.

You don’t have to walk this journey alone. Hope starts here.

Related Posts

Focus On the Step In Front of You

Circle of Hope Counseling Services, End the Stigma, Faith Journey

Be Kind to Your Mind

Brandi C

circle of hope counseling services (5)

Be Kind to Your Mind

We often hear the phrase be kind to others, but how often do we practice kindness toward ourselves—especially our minds? The way we think, the words we speak to ourselves, and the care we give our mental well-being all matter. Your mind deserves kindness, too.

Life can be overwhelming, and our thoughts can easily become filled with worry, self-doubt, and negativity. But just as we nurture our bodies with food and rest, we must nurture our minds with grace, patience, and care. You are not your mistakes. You are not your struggles and you are worthy of peace.

So how do you show kindness to your mind?

  1. Speak to yourself with love. Replace self-criticism with encouragement. Instead of “I’m failing,” try “I’m learning.” Instead of “I’m not enough,” remind yourself “I am doing my best, and that is enough.”
  2. Take breaks without guilt. Rest is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Your mind needs time to recharge, just like your body.
  3. Set boundaries. Protect your peace by limiting negativity, whether it’s toxic relationships, social media, or overworking yourself.
  4. Seek help when needed. There is strength in asking for support. Whether through prayer, therapy, or trusted friends, you don’t have to carry everything alone.
  5. Fill your mind with good things. Read, listen, and surround yourself with positivity. What you feed your mind shapes how you feel.

You are worthy of love, including the love you give yourself. So be kind to your mind. Give it rest. Give it grace. And remind yourself daily: you are doing better than you think.

💛 If you’re navigating life’s hard places and need a safe space to heal, grow, or just breathe—Circle of Hope Counseling Services is here for you.

We offer trauma-informed, faith-filled therapy for individuals, couples, and families.

📞 Reach out today to schedule your first session (KY residents only) or learn more: Circle of Hope Counseling Services.

You don’t have to walk this journey alone. Hope starts here.

Related Posts

Don’t Quit Just Do It

Circle of Hope Counseling Services, End the Stigma

Mental Health for Challenging Kids and Their Parents

Brandi C

mental health and kids

Mental Health for Challenging Kids and Their Parents

Parenting is a journey filled with love, joy, and challenges—especially when raising a child who struggles with mental health or behavioral difficulties. Some days, it feels like a rollercoaster of emotions, and as a parent, you may find yourself exhausted, second-guessing your choices, or simply trying to make it through the day. You are not alone because mental health for challenging kids and their parents is a real thing.

Supporting your child’s mental health doesn’t mean having all the answers. It means creating a foundation that helps them feel safe, supported, and understood. Here are a few key ways to do just that:

1. Keep Everything Simple

When life feels overwhelming, simplicity is key. Kids—especially those with anxiety, ADHD, autism, or other challenges—can struggle with too many choices, complex instructions, or chaotic environments. Break things down into small, manageable steps. Use visual schedules, short and clear directions, and predictable routines to help reduce stress for both you and your child.

2. Allow for Play

Play is a child’s natural language, and it’s also a powerful tool for mental and emotional health. Whether it’s imaginative play, sensory activities, or outdoor exploration, giving kids space to play helps them regulate emotions, process their experiences, and build important coping skills. Even older kids and teens benefit from activities that let them be creative and express themselves.

3. Keep a Routine

Children thrive on routine, especially those with anxiety or behavioral struggles. A consistent daily structure helps create a sense of security and predictability, reducing stress and emotional outbursts. Try to keep wake-up times, meals, and bedtime as consistent as possible. When changes need to happen, prepare your child ahead of time to ease transitions.

4. Watch for Warning Signs

Sometimes, kids express emotional distress in ways that don’t look like sadness. Watch for signs of anxiety, depression, or distress, including:

  • Increased meltdowns or irritability
  • Changes in sleep or eating habits
  • Avoiding activities they used to enjoy
  • Increased aggression or withdrawal
  • Physical complaints (stomachaches, headaches) with no medical explanation

If you notice these warning signs, don’t brush them off. Early intervention matters. Reach out to a therapist, counselor, or pediatrician to get support for your child—and for yourself.

Taking Care of You

Parenting a challenging child takes patience, resilience, and so much love. But it’s important to remember that your mental health matters too. You can’t pour from an empty cup. Find moments to breathe, lean on your support system, and remind yourself that you are doing the best you can.

If you need guidance on parenting strategies, mental health support, or simply a safe space to talk, reach out for a free 15-minute consultation or schedule an appointment today (Kentucky residents). You don’t have to do this alone.

💛 If you’re navigating life’s hard places and need a safe space to heal, grow, or just breathe—Circle of Hope Counseling Services is here for you.

We offer trauma-informed, faith-filled therapy for individuals, couples, and families.

📞 Reach out today to schedule your first session (KY residents only) or learn more: Circle of Hope Counseling Services.

You don’t have to walk this journey alone. Hope starts here.

Related Posts

Integrity

Circle of Hope Counseling Services, End the Stigma

Stop Silent Start Talking

Brandi C

@circle of hope counseling services

Stop Silent, Start Talking: Let’s End the Stigma Around Mental Health

For too long, mental health struggles have been met with silence, shame, and stigma. Stop silent, start talking: Let’s end the stigma around mental health. People suffer in the dark, afraid to speak up, fearing judgment or rejection. But here’s the truth: mental health is just as important as physical health, and it’s time we start talking about it.

When we stay silent, the stigma wins. It keeps people from reaching out, from seeking help, from knowing they are not alone. But when we speak up—when we share our struggles, listen without judgment, and remind each other that it’s okay to not be okay—we break the chains of shame.

Talking about mental health doesn’t mean you have to share every detail of your journey. It can be as simple as checking in on a friend, starting a conversation, or letting someone know you see them and they matter. It can be reminding yourself that needing help is human, not weakness.

If you’re struggling, please know this: You don’t have to suffer in silence. Your feelings are real. Your struggles are valid. Help is available, and you are worthy of it.

And if you’re someone who wants to help end the stigma, start by listening. By being a safe space. By refusing to let shame silence those who need to be heard.

Mental health matters. You matter. Let’s stop the silence and start talking—because together, we can change the conversation.

💛 You are not alone. Let’s break the stigma, one conversation at a time.

💛 If you’re navigating life’s hard places and need a safe space to heal, grow, or just breathe—Circle of Hope Counseling Services is here for you.

We offer trauma-informed, faith-filled therapy for individuals, couples, and families.

📞 Reach out today to schedule your first session (KY residents only) or learn more: Circle of Hope Counseling Services.

You don’t have to walk this journey alone. Hope starts here.

Related Posts

Preconceived Notions: More Than Meets the Eye

Circle of Hope Counseling Services, End the Stigma

Why Am I Feeling Anxious?

Brandi C

@reallygreatsite

Why Am I Feeling Anxious?

So, we am I feeling anxious? Leave comments below for why you are experiencing anxiety. Anxiety has a way of sneaking in, sometimes without warning. One minute, you’re going about your day, and the next, your heart is racing, your thoughts are spiraling, and a sense of unease settles in. But why? Why do we feel anxious, especially when we can’t pinpoint a specific reason?

Anxiety is our body’s built-in alarm system, designed to protect us from danger. The problem? Our brains don’t always distinguish between real threats and perceived ones. Stress, past trauma, exhaustion, or even an upcoming event can trigger the same fight-or-flight response as an actual emergency.

You might be feeling anxious because:

  • You’re overwhelmed. Life’s demands can pile up quickly, making it feel impossible to keep up.
  • You’re carrying unprocessed emotions. Grief, fear, or unresolved trauma can manifest as anxiety.
  • You’re overstimulated. Too much noise, social media, or even caffeine can heighten anxiety levels.
  • Your body is reacting. Lack of sleep, poor nutrition, or hormonal changes can contribute to anxious feelings.
  • You’re fearing the unknown. Uncertainty about the future can trigger anxiety, even if nothing is immediately wrong.

So, what can you do? First, breathe. Ground yourself in the present moment. Acknowledge that your feelings are valid but not always reflective of reality. Talk to someone you trust, journal your thoughts, or engage in an activity that brings you peace.

If anxiety is persistent or overwhelming, seeking professional support can help. You are not weak for feeling this way. You are human. And you are not alone.

Anxiety may whisper fear, but hope speaks louder. Keep going.

💛 If you’re navigating life’s hard places and need a safe space to heal, grow, or just breathe—Circle of Hope Counseling Services is here for you.

We offer trauma-informed, faith-filled therapy for individuals, couples, and families.

📞 Reach out today to schedule your first session (KY residents only) or learn more: Circle of Hope Counseling Services.

You don’t have to walk this journey alone. Hope starts here.

Related Posts

Daily Inspiration by Corrie Ten Boom

Circle of Hope Counseling Services, End the Stigma

Men’s Mental Health Matters

Brandi C

circle of hope counseling services

Men’s Mental Health Matters

It takes so much courage for anyone to walk through my door, but when a man steps into my office, it always strikes a different chord. There is something profoundly moving about watching a man—who has likely been told all his life to “be strong” and “tough it out”—take the brave step of asking for help. The vulnerability and strength it takes to say, “I’m struggling, and I need support,” never ceases to amaze me.

For far too long, society has placed unrealistic expectations on men when it comes to their emotions. Many grow up believing that they must suppress their feelings, handle everything on their own, and avoid appearing “weak.” But here’s the truth: seeking help is not a sign of weakness. It is a sign of strength. It takes incredible courage to recognize that something isn’t working and to take steps toward healing.

Therapy doesn’t have to be a lifelong commitment. It isn’t about sitting in a chair for years, endlessly talking about your feelings if that’s not what you need. Therapy can be what you want it to be. Maybe you need a few sessions to work through a specific challenge.  Honestly, you might need a safe space to process emotions without judgment. Maybe you’re looking for tools to better manage stress, anxiety, or relationships. Whatever it is, therapy is here to meet you where you are.

Your mental health matters—no matter your gender. You deserve support, healing, and the chance to live a fulfilling life.

Your mental health matters no matter your gender! Call for your free 15-minute consultation (Kentucky residents only) or schedule an appointment today!

Reach Out

💛 If you’re navigating life’s hard places and need a safe space to heal, grow, or just breathe—Circle of Hope Counseling Services is here for you.

We offer trauma-informed, faith-filled therapy for individuals, couples, and families.

📞 Reach out today to schedule your first session (KY residents only) or learn more: Circle of Hope Counseling Services.

You don’t have to walk this journey alone. Hope starts here.

Related Posts

What Do You Want To Do?

Circle of Hope Counseling Services, End the Stigma, Faith Journey

Mental Illness and Ending the Stigma

Brandi C

Mental Illness and Ending the Stigma

Mental Illness and Ending the Stigma

Mental Illness and Ending the Stigma. I am also not embarrassed to talk about my mental health journey. I have struggled with it since…well, for as long as I can remember. Does that mean I had a horrible childhood? Nope, quite the opposite. Does that mean I don’t love Jesus? Nope, I have a very strong relationship. It means I have a story.

I sometimes use my story, parts of it, to help others because I never want anyone to feel alone. You need to know that God sees you and captures every tear you cry (Psalm 56:8). With Him, you are not alone. You are enough, you are worthy, and you are loved by the King of Kings.

💛 If you’re navigating life’s hard places and need a safe space to heal, grow, or just breathe—Circle of Hope Counseling Services is here for you.

We offer trauma-informed, faith-filled therapy for individuals, couples, and families.

📞 Reach out today to schedule your first session (KY residents only) or learn more: Circle of Hope Counseling Services.

You don’t have to walk this journey alone. Hope starts here.

Related Posts

Happiness Versus Joy

Circle of Hope Counseling Services, End the Stigma

Psychogenic Itching

Brandi C

"</p

 

Psychogenic Itching: What It Is and How It Affects Us

Yes, Psychogenic itching is a real thing, and I didn’t even realize that was what was happening to me until recently. As a therapist, I am constantly learning—whether through trainings, observing other therapists, from clients, or personal experiences.

A few years ago, I tried EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy. I wanted to experience it before getting trained myself, so I could fully understand what I was asking of my clients. However, my experience with EMDR was not great. I had some things I couldn’t remember, and EMDR was recommended to help with that.

EMDR Session One

I had already completed the initial screening, so I skipped that part and moved straight to the tappers. There are several different methods of EMDR, but the tappers resonated with me the most. For the first session, I was instructed to go to my first and worst memory. I did so in a dark room, guided by a therapist, with my eyes closed and the tappers in hand. However, my mind didn’t go to the memory I expected. Instead, it went to something completely different, and I began randomly itching during the process.

The session was mentally and emotionally exhausting. Afterward, I went home and slept for 12 straight hours. This is not unusual for me after intense therapy, but the itching continued once I got home.

EMDR Session Two

In my second session, I started itching as soon as I pulled into the parking lot. I didn’t think much of it at first—after all, I have allergies. However, when the session started, I noticed the itching became more frequent and intense. Even the therapist noticed. My mind was fighting the memories, the exhaustion was setting in, and the itching continued to worsen. At one point, feeling overwhelmed, I threw the tappers to the floor and told the therapist I was done. This was less than five minutes after we began.

The therapist was shocked by my reaction and just as confused as I was. She was young, new to EMDR, and I wasn’t an easy client. It wasn’t an ideal situation for either of us.

EMDR Session Three

By the third session, the itching had escalated. I was already breaking out in hives by the time I arrived at the session. I told my therapist that we would not be doing EMDR but instead needed to address the issue of my itching. She said she had never encountered anything like this and would need to consult with her supervisor before proceeding.

We spent the rest of the session processing and talking things through. At the end of the day, her supervisor didn’t have any answers either. My case was beyond her scope, so she referred me to someone with more experience. And that marked the end of my EMDR experience. While it works for some people, it wasn’t the right fit for me, and I decided it’s not something I will pursue or train in.

Itching

Psychogenic itching is rare and not often diagnosed. It is also poorly understood by the medical community. This type of itching is brought on by psychological distress such as anxiety, stress, depression, or OCD. The sensation of itching is triggered by mental and emotional strain, and it tends to subside once you calm down.

For me, the itching became more intense when I was under a lot of stress. There were times when I experienced hives or welps on my skin as a physical reaction to anxiety, but my hives didn’t itch. However, when I am completely overwhelmed, my whole body itches, I feel heat in my chest and face, and hives start to appear. I also experience stomach issues and sometimes even feel nauseous. My psoriasis flares up as well, and I currently have patches on my face and legs.

You Are Not Crazy

If you experience something similar, you are not crazy. You are simply going through a tough time. Remember that there are things you can do to calm yourself down and manage the symptoms:

  • Take a cool shower

  • Take a nap

  • Drink cold water

  • Eat a protein snack

  • Get some exercise

  • Stand in the sun

  • Do something relaxing

  • Take your medication as prescribed

  • Talk to your counselor, therapist, or medical professional

You are not alone, and you are not abnormal. We all face difficult situations, and while we can’t control the actions of others, we can control our own reactions. Imagine yourself with a hula hoop around you. Whatever you can fit inside the hula hoop is within your control. If something is outside of your hula hoop, walk away. It’s not your circus, and they are not your monkeys.

Related Posts:

Focus On the Step In Front of You

 

Circle of Hope Counseling Services, End the Stigma, Guest Blogger, Suicide Awareness and Prevention

Memories with My Mom

Brandi C

Memories with My Mom

Memories with My Mom

 

Memories with My Mom. My earliest memories of my mom are when she would rock me and sing silly old songs that would make me giggle. We would play hide and seek, sit outside on the glider, and swing for a long time. 

We had snuggled in the bed, played with Barbie dolls, or watched me dress up about a million times just because she wanted to. We rode our bikes down the dead-end street and the car rides we would take to Granny’s or Jojo’s house. 

I love my mom. 

She is the best kind of mom a kid could have. My mom and dad were strict, but they made rules up for me to keep us in a structured house, and we always managed to have fun. She always took me to church on Sundays and AWANA on Wednesdays; she homeschooled us for the longest time, which I know at times must have been challenging for her with three kids. 

We would always do fun things together as a family and were all close. My mom always opened her home and heart to foster children and kids that we eventually adopted into our family, which caused us to grow in numbers.

My Thoughts

I must have made my mom’s life challenging because I was a considerably difficult child. There were a lot of things wrong in my life. Our relationship has hit lots of bumps in the road. I am very stubborn and unwilling to try new things because I am always afraid I will mess it up and embarrass myself. 

She gave me so many things that I asked for (begged for) without hesitation because she knew I wanted them. I never truly appreciated all of her wisdom and knowledge because I always think my way is best, and I know what I am doing is right. 

So many mistakes. 

I have made so many mistakes. I have hurt my mother on more than one occasion, yet she still loves me and still forgives me. No matter what. I love my mom. I love her kind and gentle soul. Her willingness to help others at moments of notice. The way she cooks with love and affection (she is the most fantastic cook). She is still in love with my dad after years of marriage. She still loves me even after all that I have put her through. 

So many tears. 

I can still see the look on her face when I told her I screwed up again. She gave me so many chances that I honestly did not deserve. She has been there for me through joyous occasions, heartbreak, funny moments, and moments of pride when I accomplish something the right way.

Communication

She has helped me learn how to communicate. To use my words even though that is sometimes very hard for me. Sometimes, I do not know how to articulate times properly. She has been there for me through my depression and anxiety. Honestly, I do not know how to handle it properly yet. She has been there for me throughout my whole school education. Also, she has supported me during the most challenging moments of college. She is the best person. Even if she says she isn’t, she is.

Strength

I do not care what she says. She is an excellent mother who does her best under certain circumstances that are out of her control. We are the very definition of a blended family. We have all kinds of mental health problems, physical problems, trauma, etc. And she is so graceful in dealing with everything she has dealt with in the past.

Hindsight is 20/20

I wish I were not the cause of some of her heartache. Also, I hope I had just listened to her instead of trying to do things my way. I wish that I had not asked for all of those things just because I wanted them. Honestly, I have prayed so hard that our relationship would be strengthened. At that moment, I vowed that I would always be honest and communicate with her whenever she asked, even if it was hard for me.

Answered Prayers

I have admitted some things to her that I can not even accept about myself. We have been open with each other, and we have gotten so much closer than we used to be, which I am so thankful for. God answered my prayers. I am gaining wisdom from her, and my communication has improved with time and patience. 

She is my rock and the one person I can trust never to judge me. I know she loves me with all of her heart, and I know that she prays for me every night. I can only hope that one day I will be like her. She is an amazing person. 

Mom, I love you more than words can even describe. 

I am so blessed and thankful that God chose you and Dad to be my parents. I am so sorry for all the times I made you cry over me. I am grateful for all the times you have been there for me, the times you have forgiven me, and the times that you have extended grace towards me. You inspire me with your strength every day. 

Mom, you are always the one to go without hesitation to help us kids. Lately, to sit with us in the hospital for days on end. You have such a giving soul. I have seen it through the relationships and friendships that you have had in the past. I can only hope that one day I will be like you.

Thank You

Thank you for everything you have done for me and what you continue to do for me every day. You are a gift and a treasure, and I will love you for the rest of my days on Earth. Know your worth (like you tell me every day). Know how much of a blessing you are to your family and friends because of your giving heart.

I love you, momma.

Always and forever.

Love, Peach.