18 February 2018

To people who need a lift



Dear Stranger,

Sometimes, we all feel a little blue. Or a lot blue. When I was sixteen, I wrote a poem, a refrain of which was:

I can't grow up, and I can't grow down.
I'm in too deep, and I'm going to drown.

I have bipolar disorder, most frequently manifested by long bouts of depression. I get feeling low. I truly appreciate the God-given talents of others to lift our souls. There are so many talented and brilliant people out there, y'all. I am sometimes blown away by how amazing people are. Like the people who designed the bed frames my girls use; assembly instructions: tighten two screws! That right there lifts my soul, and I'm not even being facetious.

Media can be so depressing, even destructive at times, but there are so many great things out there. My friend's mom once told him that he would never be "missing out" by avoiding dirty songs and movies - and whatnot - because he would never run out of things worthy of his attention. These are things I consider worthy of our attention, and soul-lifting:

The short film: Validation


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cbk980jV7Ao

Some people see goodness, and say goodness, and when that happens in our direction, it truly touches our hearts. The kindness of others can be a blinding light on the darkest night. I have been given this blessing so many times in my life; by friends and strangers. I love this short film about offering validation - and the love story is beautiful too.

The movie: Mom's Night Out
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This movie is for every mother (or anyone, but especially relatable for moms and dads) who feels like they (and their best efforts) aren't enough. My husband and I always laugh really hard during this movie, but it always strikes a deep chord with us, because we can say "we've been there"...not so much the part about jail, or the baby in the tatoo parlor... :) Check this out from the library, buy it for $5 - the truth and affirmation in this film will speak to you.

The song: Nessun Dorma

Image result for pavarotti turandot
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rTFUM4Uh_6Y

I'm specifically referring to Pavarotti singing it, because that's my experience with it. The sweeping beauty of the orchestra, and this great man's voice, bring me closer to God.

The song: Glorious

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GytW_rgr0RM

Sometimes we don't feel like we're fitting in or have a purpose, or that we're loved. Stephanie Mabey and David Archulete remind us that we're all part of God's plan.

God loves us, and He gave us people in our lives to lift us and inspire us. More than that, He gave us His Son. I'm so grateful.