In September of 2014 I posted about how I felt like God was taking me into a season of pruning. I didn't quite know what that meant, but I knew it was going to suck. The first half of 2015 was super hard. My depression was the worst it's been in a long time. I constantly had thoughts of suicide, and it took everything in me not to act on it. Eventually I made so really stupid choices that lead me to finally get some help with my mental illness. I've been going to a psychologist and been on meds for almost 6 months and I am in a much better place now. It was a very hard step, but it was worth it and I'm glad I was brave enough to do something instead of continuing to suffer.
I also am not really at church anymore. While I was struggling so much, I felt God ask me to take a break from ministry. Toward the end of my break I realized that I didn't really want to go back. I needed a break from that environment, and I really needed to not work retail anymore. So I looked for a new job, and found one at a residential facility for youths with mental health and behavioral problems due to a history of trauma. I really like this job. It's been almost a year and I'm still happy here. I started on second shift, but switched to first shift recently. I'm loving it! I get to go to school with the kids and am working on being certified to lead therapy groups. Even the worst days there are better than feeling unfulfilled at my retail job.
I've also been making deep and meaningful relationships, as well as mending and growing some old ones. I've even started seeing a wonderful man who is so good to and for me. I'm a very lucky girl.
So, when I think back to how much has changed in the last year I can't help but be overwhelmed by God's faithfulness. I'm glad I hung on long enough to see this part of my life.
Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.
-Isaiah 43:19
